Trauma-Informed Evening Shelter Advocate

YWCA Union County; Elizabeth (NJ); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

YWCA Union County in Elizabeth, NJ is seeking an Evening Shelter Advocate to provide crisis intervention and supportive services to survivors of domestic violence. The role supports hotline responses, SART/CRT activations, safety assessments, and connections to resources within a trauma-informed framework.

The position involves managing shelter operations, client admissions, and collaboration with Housing Advocate to secure permanent housing, with evening and some weekend shifts expected.

Qualifications

• BA/BSW or commensurate experience.
• Must demonstrate cultural competency through either experience or education.
• Must have some knowledge and understanding of domestic violence and trauma.
• Excellent verbal, written, and public speaking skills.
• Knowledge of computer programs including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook).
• Valid Driver’s License and reliable transportation.
• Ability to work with diverse communities.
• A highly motivated self-starter.
• Must be flexible for some evening and weekend shifts.

Responsibilities

• Answer and help with the 24-hour domestic violence hotline.
• Refer clients to internal programs and community resources.
• Maintain Client’s files and caseload.
• Perform client intake and needs assessment with required paperwork.
• Pre-screen clients for support needs and safety planning.
• Develop a comprehensive care plan with residents.
• Update care plans at reassessment intervals.
• Coordinate housing plans from entry to discharge.
• Implement resident case plans with Residential Team.
• Coordinate community event participation as needed.
• Maintain clean living spaces for new residents.
• Attend staff meetings and trainings as directed.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Public speaking

MS Office

Driver's license

Cultural competency

Trauma-informed care

Education

BA/BSW or commensurate experience

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

YWCA Union County in Elizabeth, NJ is seeking an Evening Shelter Advocate to provide crisis intervention and supportive services to survivors of domestic violence. The role supports hotline responses, SART/CRT activations, safety assessments, and connections to resources within a trauma-informed framework.

The position involves managing shelter operations, client admissions, and collaboration with Housing Advocate to secure permanent housing, with evening and some weekend shifts expected.