Trauma-Informed Shelter Advocate (First Shift)

YWCA Northeast Kansas; Topeka (KS); On-site; USD 38,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

YWCA Northeast Kansas seeks a First Shift Shelter Advocate to maintain a safe, confidential, and trauma‑informed environment for clients in the Center for Safety and Empowerment shelters.

You will provide crisis intervention, safety planning, and case management, serving as the first contact for residents, assisting with housing, healthcare, legal needs, and access to community resources, while coordinating with partners and internal teams.

Qualifications

• Degree in a related field and experience in crisis intervention or shelter services.
• Ability to engage individuals in crisis with empathy and professionalism.
• Knowledge of community resources and service coordination.

Responsibilities

• Provides crisis intervention, safety planning, and advocacy in shelter settings.
• Serves as primary contact for shelter residents during first shift and supports daily needs.
• Manages caseload and coordinates housing, health, legal, and financial services.
• Conducts intakes and orientations; documents client contacts and outcomes.
• Maintains trauma-informed, confidential, survivor-centered care.

Skills

Crisis intervention

Case management

Advocacy

Trauma-informed care

Communication

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Public Health, Human Services, or related field

Job description

YWCA Northeast Kansas seeks a First Shift Shelter Advocate to maintain a safe, confidential, and trauma‑informed environment for clients in the Center for Safety and Empowerment shelters.

You will provide crisis intervention, safety planning, and case management, serving as the first contact for residents, assisting with housing, healthcare, legal needs, and access to community resources, while coordinating with partners and internal teams.