Clay Street Overnight Shelter Staff

YMCA of the Roses•Lancaster, PA

4d•$18 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of the Roses is seeking compassionate and dependable Overnight Shelter Associates to join our Low Barrier Shelter team at the Clay Street Shelter in Lancaster City. In this important overnight role, you'll help create a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for shelter guests while providing support and care throughout the night. Overnight Shelter Associates play a key role in maintaining the safety and dignity of all guests during shelter operations from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. The Overnight Shelter Staff at Otterbein Shelter in Lancaster, PA plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the shelter during nighttime hours. This position is responsible for providing direct assistance to shelter residents, facilitating intake procedures, assigning beds, and supporting clients in settling into the shelter environment. The Overnight Shelter Staff operates on a rotating schedule with 12-hour shifts, offering consistent coverage and adequate time off for recovery and work-life balance.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent (preferred).
Previous experience working in a shelter, residential facility, or similar environment preferred.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds with empathy and respect.
Basic knowledge of crisis intervention techniques, conflict resolution, and trauma-informed care principles.
Ability to maintain confidentiality, handle sensitive information, and follow established protocols and procedures.
Must work overnight shifts, including weekends and holidays as required.
Obtain Criminal background check, Child Abuse Clearance, and FBI fingerprint clearance.

Responsibilities

Provide support and assistance to shelter residents throughout the night, offering guidance, empathy, and practical help as needed.
Rotate between various tasks, including check-in procedures, monitoring showers, assigning beds, distributing supplies, and assisting clients with basic needs.
Maintain a safe, clean, and orderly environment within the shelter, adhering to established protocols and safety guidelines.
Conduct intake procedures for new arrivals, including completing necessary paperwork, explaining shelter rules and expectations, and orienting individuals to shelter facilities and resources.
Collaborate with case managers and other staff members to assess residents' needs, identify immediate concerns, and provide appropriate support and referrals.
Offer emotional support, active listening, and crisis intervention to individuals experiencing homelessness, demonstrating empathy, compassion, and cultural sensitivity.
Assist clients in accessing additional services and resources, such as meals, clothing, hygiene supplies, medical care, and housing assistance, as available and appropriate.
Work collaboratively with other Overnight Shelter Staff members, as well as daytime staff, case managers, and external partners, to ensure continuity of care and effective communication across shifts.
Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and debriefing sessions to share information, address concerns, and enhance teamwork and service delivery.
Follow a rotating schedule with 12-hour shifts, organized into a 2-2-3 pattern, providing consistent coverage and allowing for adequate rest and recovery time.
Enjoy the benefit of two or three consecutive days off in a row, as well as every other weekend off, to promote work-life balance and prevent burnout.