Shelter Advocate

RBR Alliance; Salem (IN); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

RBR Alliance is seeking a Shelter Advocate to provide direct support to residents and hotline callers, assisting with shelter operations and crisis intervention. You will ensure safety and confidentiality while guiding clients through information and referrals.

The role requires strong communication, advocacy, and organizational skills, with flexibility for on-site shelter duties and weekend coverage. Training and collaboration with the Victim Services Shelter Manager are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma preferred; experience in crisis or shelter services is a plus.
• Effective verbal and written communication, including documentation.
• Ability to work with diverse populations and maintain confidentiality.
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certification required.

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily shelter operations and direct client services.
• Respond to crisis situations and provide information, emotional support, and referrals.
• Assist victims with safety planning and understanding the criminal justice process.
• Maintain accurate client records and required documentation.
• Attend staff meetings and trainings as required.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Crisis intervention

Advocacy

Interpersonal skills

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Google Docs

Microsoft Word

Job description

Description JOB TITLE: Shelter Advocate DEPARTMENT: Victim Services – Shelter SUPERVISOR’S TITLE: Victim Services Shelter Manager POSITIONS SUPERVISED: None JOB STATUS: Full-time Rotating, Part-time rotating, Non-Exempt SCHEDULE: Full-time Rotating (Tues 8pm-8am, Thurs 8pm-8am, Sat 8pm-8am) Part-time Rotating Hours Summary Provide direct support and advocacy to shelter residents and hotline callers. The Shelter Advocate assists with shelter operations, responds to crisis and emergency situations, supports resident safety and well-being, provides information and referrals, and maintains a safe, respectful, and confidential environment for individuals receiving services. Key Responsibilities Assist the Shelter Director and Victim Services Shelter Manager with daily shelter operations and direct client services. Respond appropriately to crisis situations, emergencies, conflicts, and resident concerns. Answer hotline calls and provide information, emotional support, crisis intervention, and referrals. Assist victims with safety planning and provide information regarding the criminal justice process. Provide emotional support and advocacy to victims and shelter residents. Assist residents with completing service delivery plans as directed by the Victim Services Shelter Manager. Assist clients with transportation needs as appropriate. Maintain a safe, supportive, and respectful shelter environment. Work as part of a team to support shelter operations, facility maintenance, and day-to-day residential needs. Maintain accurate and timely client records and required documentation, including data entry, progress notes, activity reports, timesheets, and logs. Maintain confidentiality of employees, shelter residents, clients, and all individuals served by the program. Attend staff meetings and trainings as required by the Victim Services Shelter Manager or Director of Victim Services. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications & Skills High school diploma from an accredited school preferred. Previous Experience Is Not Required. Effective verbal and written communication skills, including proper grammar and clear documentation. Ability to communicate and interact positively and productively with agency personnel, program participants, governmental departments, social service agencies, and the general public. Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Ability to resolve emergency and crisis situations and take appropriate action. Ability to work independently with limited supervision. Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality. Strong interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Basic computer skills, including knowledge of Google Docs and Microsoft Word. Dependable transportation and the ability to travel between program sites and agency headquarters. Valid driver’s license and proof of current vehicle liability insurance. Physical & Work Requirements Ability to work weekends and holidays as needed. Ability to respond effectively and appropriately during emergency and crisis situations. Ability to work independently and remain attentive to the needs of shelter residents. Ability to travel between program sites and agency headquarters. Part-time employees must be available on short notice when full-time shelter staff are absent and may be required to remain on-call at all times. Ability to maintain a safe, clean, and supportive residential environment. Certifications & Training Requirements CPR, First Aid, and AED certification required. ICADV Victim Advocate Core 40 Training required when funding is available. Completion of required agency and regulatory trainings. Additional training may be required based on program or organizational needs. Additional Information This position works under the direct supervision of the Victim Services Shelter Manager, who may add to or clarify the duties and responsibilities listed above as appropriate. For more information please contact Heather Woloshen at [e-mail] RBR Alliance, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Drug-Free Workplace Requirements Education Requirements: High school diploma from an accredited school preferred. Experience Requirements Experience working with individuals in crisis, providing advocacy or support services, or working in a shelter, social services, healthcare, or related setting preferred.