Shelter Advocate (On Call)

The Salvation Army USA Central Territory•Milwaukee, WI

5d•$13 - $17

About The Position

The Shelter Advocate provides direct care and supervision of residents and property at the Emergency Lodge to ensure a safe environment. This is an on-call position averaging four hours per week, with additional hours potentially available when coverage is needed. Shifts are primarily second and third shifts, with occasional first shifts as assigned. The role includes monitoring residents and the facility, managing front-desk operations, conducting resident intake and discharge activities, providing basic needs, maintaining records, enforcing shelter rules, and supporting case management and building maintenance. The Shelter Advocate follows Emergency Lodge policies and procedures, maintains resident confidentiality, responds to emergencies, and supports The Salvation Army’s mission. Other job-related responsibilities may be assigned, and reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Valid driver’s license and clearance to drive from The Salvation Army’s insurance carrier.
Complete The Salvation Army’s Safe from Harm and CPI: Non-Violent Crisis Intervention training within 90 days of hire.
Ability to meet the position’s required knowledge, skills, and abilities, which may be attained through an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Nice To Haves

One year of college is preferred.
One year of experience working with people who are homeless or low-income, or who have issues with chemical dependency, mental health, domestic violence, or sexual assault is preferred.

Responsibilities

Monitor facility activities and resident whereabouts to help ensure safety.
Maintain security of residents and the facility, including monitoring internal and external building areas.
Manage front-desk operations, including phone calls, mail, visitors, and resident arrivals and departures.
Check in residents returning after work or other approved absences.
Conduct resident intake, including completing paperwork and explaining program services and rules.
Conduct exit and discharge services as directed, including interviews, paperwork, reporting, and helping move residents’ property.
Maintain strict confidentiality regarding residents and staff.
Provide residents with basic needs, including hygiene items, laundry soap, cleaning supplies, and meals or meal-related items.
Maintain shift records, document significant events, and share information with oncoming staff.
Notify supervisors of incidents and the presence of police, EMTs, or other agency personnel; complete incident reports before the end of the shift.
Know and follow Emergency Lodge policies and procedures; enforce shelter rules consistently.
Prepare rooms for residents arriving after normal business hours.
Conduct and document hourly walkthroughs of the building, including stairwells.
Conduct and document visual in-room resident checks at curfew.
Supervise the dining area during mealtimes as needed.
Conduct breathalyzer and urinalysis tests as directed or when drug or alcohol use is suspected.
Secure, distribute, and chart resident medication and medical supplies as required.
Assist case management and program staff as requested.
Assist building maintenance personnel and perform general cleaning, including snow removal, as needed or requested.
Carry out emergency procedures to help ensure resident and staff safety.
Participate in training programs and staff meetings.
Demonstrate awareness of and active support for The Salvation Army’s mission.