Residential Assistant (Comfort Center)

YWCA of Binghamton•Binghamton, NY

3d•$20 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

The Resident Assistant (RA) plays a critical role in supporting guests at the YWCA Comfort Center. Resident Assistants help maintain a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment while providing day-to-day operational support for the Comfort Center. RAs ensure a safe, secure, comfortable, and supportive environment in a manner consistent with the philosophy, policies, and procedures of the YWCA, including our approach to care for homeless individuals. Resident Assistants also support the YWCA mission of eliminating racism and empowering women by creating an environment grounded in dignity, respect, and trauma-informed care.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Experience working in residential programs, shelters, human services, or related environments preferred.
Strong interpersonal communication skills
Ability to remain calm and professional in stressful situations
Basic administrative and documentation skills
Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds
Trauma-Informed Approach
Ability to interact with residents in ways that promote safety, dignity, and empowerment.
Communication & Boundaries
Clear, respectful communication while maintaining professional boundaries and understanding when a line has been crossed into personal matters.
Situational Awareness
Ability to monitor environments and recognize potential safety concerns.
Documentation Accuracy
Ability to maintain clear and accurate records.
Team Collaboration
Ability to work closely with case managers, supervisors, and other staff to support residents.

Responsibilities

Supervise guests in the program including coaching guests on program policies and rules as well as potential consequences for violation of program policies/rules.
Address immediate basic needs, orienting the guest to the comfort center program.
Provide supplies to meet basic needs such as snack/meal, linens, container for their belongings and hygiene supplies.
Provide conflict resolution, crisis intervention and support as needed.
Plan, conduct and monitor guest group meeting sessions and other activities.
Maintain statistical accountability.
Provide clear and concise daily log entries.
Maintain up to date daily log/census.
Complete shift specific tasks such as chore assignments, cleaning, laundry, intake sheets, etc.
Maintain communication shift-to-shift in staff journal.
Answer telephone and respond to inquiries. Provide resources and referrals.
Conduct regular (at least once/a night) facility safety checks, including sleeping/resting areas.
Communicate any needs (maintenance or repairs) in the communication journal. Any immediate safety concerns will be addressed immediately.
Monitor fire/security/ alarm system.
Attend mandatory staff meetings and required training sessions.
Conduct basic intake information of each new guest.
Demonstrate cultural competence as well as integrate understanding into daily responsibilities.