Night Shelter Advocate – Trauma-Informed Support

Ywca Of Western Massachusetts; Springfield (MA); On-site; USD 24,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

YWCA of Western Massachusetts is hiring a Direct Service Advocate for our Springfield shelter. This full-time position involves overnight Sunday-Thursday 11pm-7am, with a starting rate of $21.00 per hour plus 1.25 shift differential, and benefits consistent with the organization.

The DSA will provide support, advocacy and role modeling to residents in residential programs, working within a trauma-informed framework.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree plus 1 - 3 years of experience in human services.
• Experience working in residential setting preferred.
• Familiarity with issues of domestic violence.
• Experience with survivors of gender-based violence and exploitation.
• Ability to represent agency from a management perspective in an active union environment.
• Excellent written and organizational skills including computer skills.
• Reliable transportation, safe driving record, and valid driver’s license required. Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy.
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Provide support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen, and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs.
• Work with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants.
• Support the agency mission and trauma-informed service model to provide safe, consistent and quality services.
• Conduct shelter intakes as needed.
• Provide crisis intervention as needed.
• Help residents become acquainted with shelter and other residents upon arrival.
• Provide counseling to residents upon arrival and as needed throughout their stay.
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property.
• Responsible for preparing and providing breakfast to residents.
• Enforce shelter rules and guidelines.
• Engage with residents at meal time and ensure areas are cleaned.
• Ensure completion of chores as applicable.
• Work alone in the event of a staff call-out.
• Complete all required paperwork and maintain client records.
• Attend monthly staff meetings.
• Perform other related duties as needed.

Education

Associate’s degree

Job description

YWCA of Western Massachusetts is hiring a Direct Service Advocate for our Springfield shelter. This full-time position involves overnight Sunday-Thursday 11pm-7am, with a starting rate of $21.00 per hour plus 1.25 shift differential, and benefits consistent with the organization.

The DSA will provide support, advocacy and role modeling to residents in residential programs, working within a trauma-informed framework.