Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate

BHcare; Ansonia (CT); On-site; USD 30,000 - 32,000; Part time

Job summary

BHcare is seeking a Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate to support residents in Connecticut. This part-time role offers weekend night shifts and requires onsite presence as essential staff.

The position emphasizes crisis intervention, safety planning, and advocacy for survivors of domestic violence. Responsibilities include intake, facilitating groups, coordinating with community partners, and maintaining a safe shelter.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred; Associate’s with 4 years related experience or HS diploma with 8 years may be considered.
• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
• Two years advocacy/direct service with survivors of domestic violence preferred.
• Crisis intervention and counseling skills preferred.
• Strong written communication skills.
• Ability to work with a diverse range of clients.
• Proficient in Microsoft 365 and EmpowerDB.

Responsibilities

• Develop service plans and connect clients with community resources.
• Collaborate with community partners to support client needs.
• Facilitate support groups and educational activities.
• Maintain a safe and welcoming shelter environment.
• Assist with household operations and transportation needs.
• Complete documentation accurately and timely.

Skills

Bilingual English/Spanish

Crisis intervention

Written communication

Advocacy experience

Diversity awareness

Trauma-informed care

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred

Associate’s degree + 4 yrs related experience

High school diploma + 8 yrs related experience

Tools

Microsoft 365

EmpowerDB

Job description

At BHcare, a nonprofit organization, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live a healthy, safe, and fulfilling life. Every day, our teams provide compassionate care and support to individuals and families across Connecticut through behavioral health, substance use, domestic violence, housing, and community-based services.

We are looking for a Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate who is passionate about making a difference and wants to join a team committed to helping people thrive.

This is a part-time, 16 hours per week position. The schedule is Saturday and Sunday 10:45pm-7:15am.

This position is designated as Onsite Essential Staff and is required to report to work during inclement weather and other emergency situations.

Candidates must reside in Connecticut to be eligible for this position.

What You Will Do

In this role, you will help create a safe, supportive environment for individuals affected by domestic violence. You will provide crisis intervention, safety planning, prevention programming, and advocacy, while welcoming new residents, completing intakes, and helping clients adjust to shelter services.

• Develop service plans and connect clients with community resources.
• Collaborate with community partners to support client needs.
• Facilitate support groups and educational activities.
• Maintain a safe and welcoming shelter environment.
• Assist with household operations and transportation needs.
• Complete documentation accurately and timely.

What You Will Bring

• Bachelor's degree preferred. Associate’s degree and four (4) years of related human services experience; or High school diploma (or equivalent) and eight (8) years of related human services experience. A lesser number of years of experience may be considered, subject to funder approval.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Two years of advocacy and/or direct service experience working with survivors of domestic violence in a community-based setting preferred.
• Crisis intervention and counseling skills preferred.
• Strong written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse range of clients.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft 365, and able to navigate through the electronic records system (EmpowerDB).

What We Offer

The anticipated salary range for this position is $21.91 - $23.00. Actual compensation offered will be determined based on a variety of factors including relevant skills, experience, qualifications, certifications, and internal equity considerations.

BHcare offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, company-observed holidays, a retirement savings plan, and other fringe benefits. Benefit eligibility may vary based on position, schedule, and applicable plan or policy requirements.

Join Our Team

At BHcare, you’ll be part of a mission-driven team working to break the cycle of domestic violence and build stronger, safer communities. We offer a supportive environment where your work truly changes lives.

Be a voice of hope. Be an advocate for safety.

BHcare is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, marital or civil union status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.