Lead Shelter Associate

United Way of Weld County•Greeley, CO

162d•$20 - $22

About The Position

The Housing Navigation Center (HNC) is a resource center that provides services to people experiencing homelessness, helps people regain housing, and helps households in Weld County navigate local housing resources. As part of Weld’s Way Home, Weld County’s initiative to address and prevent homelessness, the HNC provides clear access to housing services ranging from homelessness prevention to sheltering. The person in this role will use a Housing First focus to assist in shelter operations and tasks. They will work directly with people experiencing homelessness to provide a safe, effective, and welcoming seasonal emergency shelter.

Requirements

Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and overnight shifts
Self-motivated; proven excellent performance standards and quality of work
Excellent customer service and phone skills
Ability to effectively respond to escalated situations or crisis
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suire and Google Docs
Data and intake experience in HMIS or related data systems
Effective interpersonal communication skills including one-on-one conversations
Ability to work independently and as a team player
Networking and community relationship building skills
High school diploma and one year experience providing homeless services, case management, social work, health/human services, public health, or related nonprofit field
Experience in case management, shelter services, and/or homelessness response services
Experience utilizing trauma-informed care, de-escalation, Housing First, and person-centered care principles
Experience and willingness to work with highly vulnerable individuals and people experiencing homelessness

Nice To Haves

Current first aid and CPR/AED certification preferred

Responsibilities

Oversee and direct Shelter Associates during shifts and ensure all shelter duties are accomplished nightly, and shelter procedures are followed
Take the lead in maintaining a welcoming, respectful, person-centered environment, while ensuring the support and safety of guests, staff, and volunteers
As the lead staff on shift, navigate guest, staff, security, and volunteer needs and escalate to senior staff when needed
Report to the shelter manager with critical updates, staffing and inventory needs
Maintain effective written and verbal communication with daytime and nighttime staff to ensure all vital information is shared and to ensure consistency and quality of service
Actively participate in shelter/agency meetings and relevant training as required
Work with people experiencing homelessness during shelter hours to provide a welcoming shelter environment, ensuring guest and staff safety, and providing guests with appropriate resources
Assist the Shelter Manager with nightly operations and schedule of the shelter program
Perform shelter check-in/check-out responsibilities including completing intakes, assisting with meal service, preparing sleeping areas, distributing donations, and maintaining shelter cleanliness and organization
Carry out HNC& CWS policies and procedures for shelter activities including COVID-19 procedures, shelter safety policies, and general operational procedures
Direct and guide new guests to orient them to the space and policies as needed
Utilize trauma-informed de-escalation techniques to address guest concerns and mitigate conflict
Maintain relationships among community partner agencies, key stakeholders, and the Weld County community to increase awareness of shelter resources and to maintain shelter stability
Coordinate with the HNC staff to ensure seamless service delivery between daytime and night-time operations
Assist in staffing extreme weather days during daytime shelter hours, when required
Assist in staffing offsite overflow shelter if activated during weather emergencies
Maintain neighborhood relationships around the HNC
Participate in training around Housing First, Trauma-Informed Care, Mental Health First Aid, and other necessary topics
Accurately records services, intake, and assessment data in the Homelessness Management Information System (HMIS)
Support and promote the mission, values, goals and objectives of United Way, including representing United Way in professional organizations and the community (as assigned).
Support fundraising efforts of United Way and activities that support United Way.
Support United Way annual events, disaster response, and other activities as assigned.
Participate in staff meetings and in service opportunities.
Contribute to organizational promotions including writing promotional copy, proofreading informational and campaign materials, participation in outreach, etc.
Other duties as assigned.