Trauma-Informed Shelter Advocate for Survivors

Children & Families of Iowa; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Children & Families of Iowa is seeking a compassionate Shelter Advocate for our Domestic Violence Services team. You will provide crisis intervention, advocacy, safety planning, and referrals within a secure shelter environment to help survivors build safety and achieve goals.

This role requires trauma-informed care, strong communication, and the ability to coordinate with community partners. You will document cases, support daily shelter operations, and remain adaptable across shifts to ensure

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; degree in Human Services or related field preferred.
• Experience with individuals impacted by domestic violence, trauma, or crisis situations is strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care, victim services, and local community resources.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with professional boundaries.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and respond effectively in high-pressure situations.

Responsibilities

• Provide crisis intervention, advocacy, safety planning, and referrals to clients in person or by phone.
• Respond to crisis situations within the shelter following agency policies to ensure safety of clients and staff.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of community resources and build relationships with service providers for referrals.
• Support clients in achieving self-sufficiency and emotional well-being through goal setting and trauma-informed advocacy.
• Engage in professional development to expand knowledge of domestic violence and trauma-informed care.
• Complete required documentation per shift (intake, exit paperwork, incident reports, case notes, shelter logs).
• Maintain professional communication with team to ensure continuity of care.
• Support daily shelter operations, monitor facility safety, resolve conflicts, align with client goals.
• Provide or coordinate transportation to clients for activities and appointments as needed.
• Maintain attendance and participate in team and advocate meetings.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Interpersonal communication

Professional boundaries

Independent work

Time management

Valid driver’s license

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field

Job description

Children & Families of Iowa is seeking a compassionate Shelter Advocate for our Domestic Violence Services team. You will provide crisis intervention, advocacy, safety planning, and referrals within a secure shelter environment to help survivors build safety and achieve goals.

This role requires trauma-informed care, strong communication, and the ability to coordinate with community partners. You will document cases, support daily shelter operations, and remain adaptable across shifts to ensure