Housing Advocate

Kroc Center; Minneapolis (MN); Hybrid; USD 41,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The Salvation Army Harbor Light Center in Minneapolis is seeking a Housing Advocate to provide direct support to adults experiencing homelessness, build relationships, advocate for participants, and ensure a safe, welcoming shelter environment.

You will assist with navigating shelter expectations, recording accurate data, and promoting engagement in community services and programs. This role requires empathy, teamwork, and strong organizational skills.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of one year of experience supporting individuals, preferably in a shelter or client-focused setting.
• Must pass all required background checks.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet MVR requirements preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with diverse populations.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team and accept supervision.
• Sensitivity to homelessness, addiction, unemployment, and diversity.
• Demonstrates professionalism and discretion in handling confidential information.
• Highly organized with attention to detail and reliable work ethic.
• Proficient in computers and basic software (Microsoft Office, data entry).

Responsibilities

• Provide direct support to adults experiencing homelessness; advocate and ensure a safe shelter environment.
• Assist participants with navigating shelter policies and crises.
• Maintain accurate records, intakes, and incident reports.
• Promote engagement in available programs and corps activities.
• Collaborate with colleagues to support initiatives and resource connections.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Teamwork

Communication skills

Cultural sensitivity

Rapport building

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Microsoft Office

Data entry systems

Job description

The Salvation Army Northern Division Harbor Light Center (HLC) and satellite locations is “Doing the Most Good” by providing shelter, housing, and holistic, person-centered, supportive services to over 300 single adults each night. HLC also offers worship services, pastoral care, and connections to community partners.

The Housing Advocate provides direct support to adults experiencing homelessness by building relationships, offering advocacy, and ensuring a safe and welcoming shelter environment. Advocates assist participants in navigating shelter expectations, accessing services, and responding to crises. The role includes accurate recordkeeping, promoting engagement in available programs, and collaborating with internal colleagues to support initiatives and maintain resource connections that foster long-term stability.

Essential Functions (Approximate Time Spent)

• Client Care (80%) : Provide compassionate, person-centered support to adult participants through both short- and long-term advocacy. Assist participants in navigating shelter policies, responding to crises, and maintaining a safe, respectful environment, including supporting participants on the floor and at meals and conducting regular rounds.
• Participant Information Management (10%) : Ensure participant records, including intakes and incident reports, are accurately maintained and consistently documented in accordance with organizational standards.
• Program Promotion (5%) : Connect participants with available social services and corps activities.
• Organizational Engagement & Resource Development (5%) : Collaborate with colleagues to support HLC initiatives and help maintain a catalog of local resources that support participant success.

Full Time, 40hrs/week

40 hours/week, $19.65-$20.35/hour

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of one year of experience supporting individuals, preferably in a homeless shelter or other client- or customer-focused setting.
• Must successfully pass all required background checks.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) requirements preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build rapport and work effectively with diverse populations.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and accept supervision and direction.
• Sensitivity to issues related to homelessness, addiction, unemployment, and cultural and racial diversity.
• Demonstrates professionalism, integrity, and discretion in handling confidential information.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and a reliable work ethic.
• Proficient in using computers and basic software, including Microsoft Office and data entry systems.

Working Conditions

• Must be able to meet the physical demands of the role, including mobility, standing for extended periods, bending, reaching, and regularly lifting up to 20 pounds, with occasional lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Typical schedule includes after-school hours during the academic year and daytime hours in the summer; weekend availability required during the school year for practices and games.
• Position is not eligible for remote work.
• Active participation in sports and youth activities is required.
• Must be able to communicate clearly and work effectively in an in-person environment.

Driving/Travel Requirements

• If cleared, drive agency vehicles locally to support the mission.

Other Duties

• All employees recognize that The Salvation Army is a church and agree to support its mission as employees.
• This job description is not all-inclusive and is intended to outline essential functions. The supervisor may assign additional duties, responsibilities, and tasks as needed.

Additional Information

The Salvation Army Mission

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its Mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against applicants on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, creed, disability, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.

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