SHELTER ADVOCATE - 3pm to 11pm

YWCA CENTRAL MASSACHUSETTS INC

2d•$20 - $22•Onsite

About The Position

As a Shelter Advocate you will provide all services required by residential program participants and crisis help line callers. Hours: 3-11PM Monday through Friday

Requirements

High School
Ability to advocate on behalf of victims
Calm under pressure
Strong organization and computer skills
Valid Massachusetts driver’s license

Nice To Haves

Associate’s Degree in related field such as Human Services, Counseling, or Social Services
Bi-lingual preferred
Two years minimum experience in domestic violence intervention and prevention preferred
Training and experience in crisis intervention counseling preferred

Responsibilities

Assess participants’ needs
Answer the crisis hotline and provide callers, as well as all program participants, with empowerment-based crisis counseling, guidance, emotional support, information, and referrals. Determine if the victim is seeking emergency shelter and offer assistance as needed
Assess lethality of participant’s situation
Assist participant with the development and implementation of a safety plan
Provide information on the dynamics of domestic violence
Provide empowerment-based counseling (face-to-face and/or via telephone) in either individual or group settings
Provide assistance in filing for restraining orders, injunctions, protective orders, immigration, and other petitions. Support, assist, and advocate for victims at any stage in the criminal justice system
Assist with filing for compensation claims which includes making victim aware of the availability of crime victim compensation, assistance with completing the required forms, and gathering the needed documentation.
Assist victims in securing rights, remedies, and services from other agencies. Offer aid in locating emergency financial assistance, TANF benefits, and other resources. Intervene with others on behalf of the victim. Provide referrals, vouchers, and/or supplies for items such as transportation, food, clothing, and emergency housing
Assist with reporting elder abuse, child abuse, or other required reporting
Maintain and report statistical measurements as required
Maintain documentation as required
Refer/advocate to community resources as necessary
Adhere to the Shelter’s policies and procedures