Residential Advocate (PT; 20 hrs/wk)

Way Finders•Springfield, MA

5d•$18 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

Way Finders is a Top Workplaces for Nonprofit organization, named as an employer of choice because our employees said so! At Way Finders, we are passionately invested in lifting up the region’s people, places, and systems. Though our team performs a wide variety of functions, we are united by our shared mission: to build and advocate for a thriving region; to improve the stability and economic mobility of families and individuals; and to develop and manage a robust range of safe, affordable housing options. Interested in joining our team of dedicated professionals? Way Finders is currently seeking a part-time Residential Advocate. The Residential Advocate is a great role for anyone who has worked in human or social services and finds meaning in assisting and advocating for others in a shelter setting.

Requirements

1 year of equivalent experience in human services frontline work, or a related role; a combination of experience plus a high school diploma (or equivalent) may be a substitute
Fundamental computer and Microsoft Office skills, with the ability to learn new technologies
Excellent interpersonal skills, including empathy and patience
Responsive crisis-management ability in a sometimes high-stress environment while employing solid decision-making skills
Ability to self-motivate and remain professional when working independently
Ability to earn and maintain CPR certification as per program requirements (training provided)
Ability to navigate multiple flights of stairs in a home environment
CORI/SORI

Nice To Haves

Preference for experience working with the homeless population
Bilingual (English/Spanish) skill are appreciated, but not required

Responsibilities

Provide exceptional, positive customer service and initial reception to families entering, and currently living, in shelter
Assist case manager with after-hours intakes and activities related to rehousing plans as assigned, completing paperwork in a thorough, patient, and respectful manner, including assessing for immediate needs
Provide process-driven, professional backup during emergency incidents, including appropriately calling for assistance from case managers, management, and external sources (ambulance, police) as necessary
Stay updated on basic resources in the community and share with clients as appropriate; make referrals to other agencies as directed by case managers
Update staff communication log during each shift, to include pertinent details that affect, or may affect, the program, families, or clients
Monitor and review cameras and doors to allow participants into the building; receive all packages and mail and distribute into mailboxes in a timely and accurate manner; receive visitors, ensuring sign-in with identification
Respond to and report on all serious incidents, including but not limited to immediate communication to manager and/or on-call supervisor, and the completion of all proper documentation
Assign and monitor weekly housekeeping tasks; conduct unit inspections, issuing non-compliance warnings as necessary; complete unit turnovers as assigned and needed to welcome new families
Assist in the resolution of problems or issues that arise during shift
Observe, follow, and enforce all rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of the shelter
Respond to the needs and requests of residents in a timely fashion in accordance with rules and provide ongoing individual participant support as needed
Proactively manage inventory of program supplies to ensure items remain fully stocked
Maintain clean and safe physical environment, including but not limited to dusting, organizing, sweeping, mopping, and trash/debris removal
Attend staff and individual professional development meetings; complete all assigned trainings as required within the designated timeframe
Report maintenance needs, following related procedures