Weekend Shelter Advocate

Laurel House; Pennsylvania; On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Part time

Job summary

Laurel House is seeking a compassionate Shelter Advocate to provide vital support and advocacy to survivors of domestic violence in a part-time capacity over weekends. This role involves crisis intervention, resource coordination, and maintaining a safe environment for clients in the emergency shelter, requiring empathy and strong communication skills. Join a mission-driven team dedicated to empowering survivors and making a meaningful impact in the community.

Benefits

Ongoing training and professional development

Collaborative, mission-focused environment

Qualifications

• Experience working with survivors of domestic violence or in residential/crisis intervention settings preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and attention to administrative detail is required.
• Bilingual candidates (English/Spanish or ASL) strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Deliver individual empowerment-based counseling and advocacy services to shelter residents.
• Respond to calls and texts on the 24-hour hotline, providing crisis intervention.
• Support residents in accessing resources such as housing and healthcare.

Skills

Crisis response

Active listening

De-escalation

Cultural sensitivity

Empathy

Education

Bachelor's degree

1-2 years of relevant experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Title: Shelter Advocate (Weekend Shift: Sat & Sun, 4 PM - Midnight)
Location: Lansdale, PA
Reports To: Shelter Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Schedule: Part-Time, Every Weekend - Saturday and Sunday, 4:00 PM to Midnight

About Laurel House

Laurel House is a comprehensive domestic violence agency dedicated to the vision of ending domestic violence in every life, every community, and every relationship. We provide an array of supportive services to individuals and families affected by domestic abuse, empowering survivors to build lives free from violence and fear.

Position Overview

Laurel House is seeking a compassionate and reliable Shelter Advocate to provide direct support, advocacy, and crisis intervention to adults and children residing in our emergency shelter due to experiences of domestic violence. This part-time position requires consistent availability every weekend, Saturday and Sunday from 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM (midnight), and plays a vital role in maintaining safe, uninterrupted operations at the shelter.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver individual empowerment-based counseling and advocacy services to shelter residents.

• Respond to calls and texts on the 24-hour hotline, providing crisis intervention, safety planning, and resource referrals.

• Conduct client screenings, intakes, and maintain accurate and timely documentation.

• Support residents in accessing resources such as housing, employment, financial assistance, healthcare, and legal aid.

• Lead or assist with house meetings and group programming in coordination with the Counseling Department and Shelter Manager.

• Maintain a secure, clean, and supportive environment within the shelter facility.

• Coordinate donation intake, inventory, and storage.

• Remain on-site until relieved by the next staff member to ensure uninterrupted shelter coverage.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Experience working with survivors of domestic violence or in residential/crisis intervention settings preferred.

• Strong crisis response, active listening, and de-escalation skills.

• Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds with cultural sensitivity and empathy.

• Bachelor's degree preferred, or 1-2 years of relevant experience.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and attention to administrative detail.

• Bilingual candidates (English/Spanish or ASL) strongly encouraged to apply.

• Passionate about Laurel House's mission and committed to survivor empowerment.

Why Join Laurel House?

• Make a meaningful impact in the lives of survivors and their families.

• Work in a collaborative, mission-focused environment.

• Receive ongoing training and professional development.

• Be part of a dedicated team creating safer communities.

Application Instructions

To apply, please email your resume and a brief cover letter to [e-mail] with the subject line:
"Shelter Advocate Application - [Your Name]"