Overnight Shelter Advocate

YWCA OF WESTERN MA; Springfield (MA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) at the YWCA of Western MA provides support, advocacy and role modeling to participants in residential programs. You will conduct intakes, offer counseling, document services, and coordinate with teams to ensure trauma-informed, safe care for survivors of violence.

You will maintain facilities, enforce rules, and assist with meals and chores while upholding confidentiality and working within a union environment.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree plus 1-3 years of experience in human services.
• Residential setting experience preferred.
• Familiarity with domestic violence issues.
• Experience addressing impacts on multiple communities.
• Ability to work in a union environment and maintain confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Conduct shelter intakes as needed.
• Provide crisis intervention as needed.
• Accurately record documents and hand to management.
• Assist residents in navigating shelter and other services.
• Provide counseling to residents as needed.
• Maintain facility and property (cleaning, laundry, etc.).
• Enforce shelter rules and guidelines.
• Assist during meals and supervise cleanup.
• Work independently if a staff call-out occurs.
• Complete paperwork and maintain client records.
• Attend monthly staff meetings.
• Perform other related duties as needed.

Skills

Crisis intervention

Documentation

Counseling

Communication

Confidentiality

Teamwork

Education

Associate’s degree

Job description

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) at the YWCA of Western MA provides support, advocacy and role modeling to participants in residential programs. You will conduct intakes, offer counseling, document services, and coordinate with teams to ensure trauma-informed, safe care for survivors of violence.

You will maintain facilities, enforce rules, and assist with meals and chores while upholding confidentiality and working within a union environment.