Residential Counselor (Evenings) - Domestic Violence Shelter

Equinox Inc•City of Albany, NY

46d

About The Position

Equinox is a non-profit human services organization in the Capital Region. For more than 40 years, Equinox has reached out to people who need us most with innovative and effective programs that truly change lives, allowing us to fulfill our purpose of helping those we serve move forward on their paths to recovery, healing, and independence. Equinox is Albany County’s primary provider of services for victims of domestic violence. Our Domestic Violence Programs provide safety for victims of Domestic Violence, including the elderly, and offer the support, assistance and tools they need to escape abusive situations and take control of their lives. Domestic Violence Services are available to all victims and their dependent children, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. Position Summary: The Residential Counselor is responsible for supervision of the shelter in the evening, providing crisis intervention and supportive listening to residents; overseeing group and recreational activities; answering the 24-hour crisis line; various administrative and facility duties, and maintaining a safe and secure environment.

Requirements

Ability to negotiate stairs
Ability to lift and carry minimum of 15 pounds
Ability to handle basic facility emergencies
Ability to drive and transport clients with agency vehicles
High School Diploma or equivalent
One-year human services experience. (Bachelor’s Degree will be substituted in lieu of experience requirement.)
Must have a clean, valid NYS Driver License
Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Access and Outlook

Nice To Haves

Associates Degree in related field
Fluency in Spanish and/or an additional language
Prior residential experience
Prior experience working with domestic violence, substance abuse or mental health populations

Responsibilities

Interact with residents in a positive and productive manner. Provide emotional support and models consistent respect
Assist residents to meet their daily needs. Ensure clients have personal care items needed
Resolve any client issues and shelter concerns
Enforce program policies and procedures and monitor resident compliance
Oversee scheduled programming on shift and participate in recreational activities
Answer 24 hour crisis line, providing supportive listening, crisis intervention, information, referral and shelter intakes
Conduct intakes and shelter orientation with new residents
Coordinates and may prepare resident meals
Monitor and manage supply inventory
Perform light housekeeping duties as assigned
Respond to emergency situations in an appropriate and timely manner
Enter relevant notations in logs and case notes, ensure all information is documented in ALICE database
Communicate information to other staff
Maintain security of shelter
Attend staff, supervision and other meeting as required
Report suspected cases of child abuse/maltreatment as a mandated reporter
Ability to model Crisis intervention skills
Ability to provide objective supportive listening and guidance
Ability to write and speak clearly and concisely
Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team
Ability to model calm and cooperative behavior
Ability to prioritize and complete multiple tasks in an organized manner
Ability to maintain strict client confidentiality and engage with a diverse population
Demonstrate group meal preparation skills, basic household maintenance skills and group facilitation skills
Act in accordance with Equinox mission
Complete other tasks and responsibilities to ensure smooth running of the shelter