Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate

BHcare; New Haven (CT); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Part time

Job summary

BHcare, a nonprofit organization, seeks a Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate to provide crisis intervention, safety planning, advocacy, and intake services in a 24/7 on-site program across Connecticut. Per diem shifts with essential staff duties require availability during inclement weather and emergencies.

Candidates must reside in Connecticut for eligibility. The role involves creating safe environments, arranging community resources, and coordinating with partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred; Associate’s degree and four (4) years of related human services experience; or High school diploma and eight (8) years of related human services experience.

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

Counseling skills

Strong written communication

Microsoft 365 proficiency

EmpowerDB navigation

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred

Associate’s degree + 4 years experience

High school diploma + 8 years 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.

These are Per Diem positions, various shifts are available as it is a 24/7 program.

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. Must be able to navigate through the electronic records system (EmpowerDB).

What We Offer:

Pay rate is $20.00 per hour.

Benefits: Eligible for Connecticut Paid Sick Leave and participation in the 403(b) retirement savings plan.

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.