Shelter Advocate

Alliance for Community Transformations•Mariposa, CA

10d

About The Position

This position provides trauma-informed case management, crisis intervention, and advocacy services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in shelter and transitional housing settings. The role supports client safety, stability, and self-sufficiency through individualized planning, group support, education, and resource coordination. Responsibilities include maintaining shelter security, responding to crises, enforcing program guidelines, documenting services, and collaborating with staff, volunteers, and community partners. The position requires the ability to work independently in high-stress environments, communicate compassionately with diverse populations, and uphold confidentiality and organizational values. A valid California driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the ability to meet physical and safety requirements are essential.

Requirements

Knowledge Of
Data entry and office computer programs
Domestic violence and sexual assault dynamics
Crisis intervention and counseling techniques
Office operations and administrative processes
Computer applications including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, webinar platforms, and web-based software
Ability To
Communicate effectively in stressful or crisis situations
Work with limited supervision in high-stress environments
Communicate respectfully with individuals from diverse socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds
Assist clients with conflict resolution
Organize, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks
Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and professionalism
Supervise and support volunteers
Education / Experience
High School Diploma or GED
Minimum of two years of work or volunteer experience in social services
Ability to communicate compassionately and clearly
Completion of required volunteer or program training upon hire
Completion of First Aid and CPR certification upon hire
Physical Requirements
Ability to see, read, and interpret instructional materials
Ability to hear and understand speech in person and by phone
Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds
Ability to bend, stoop, walk, reach, push/pull, squat, twist, and turn
Mental acuity to perform essential job functions accurately and timely
Ability to drive a vehicle
Additional Requirements
Fingerprint clearance (at employer expense)
Valid California Driver’s License
Proof of current automobile insurance
Reliable transportation

Responsibilities

Respond empathetically to victims of crime to reduce trauma and provide non-judgmental support
Assist Shelter Lead and Program Director with orientation of new shelter clients
Develop self-sufficiency plans and goals for shelter and transitional housing residents
Assess clients’ current and long-term needs
Provide one-on-one and group support
Conduct educational classes as assigned
May provide childcare for groups or classes as requested
Facilitate house meetings
Relay client issues and occurrences between night and morning staff
Communicate with law enforcement and other agencies as needed
Enforce shelter and transitional housing guidelines and rules
Adhere to organizational mission, values, and policies
Maintain knowledge of available client and community resources
Represent the organization professionally in the community
Maintain confidentiality of all client information
Ensure safety of shelter buildings and residents through regular patrols
Investigate unusual sounds, disturbances, or intrusions
Respond to shelter phone calls and door visitors
Contact law enforcement as necessary
Conduct curfew checks
Report incidents to the Shelter Lead and Program Director
Complete data entry of client registration and service logs
Answer crisis line calls and accurately document services provided
Complete house chores, tasks, and light maintenance as assigned
Perform other duties within the job classification
Participate in staff meetings as scheduled or requested
Pick up commodities monthly and deliver to designated office and shelter locations
Document food distribution statistics and submit monthly data