Shelter Assistant

Porchlight • Madison, WI

5d • Onsite

About The Position

This position works from 4:00 PM to Midnight. Under the direction of the Shelter Director, a Shelter Assistant is responsible for the peaceful and routine operation of the Men's Drop-In Shelter (DIS). Shelter Assistants maintain a wakeful and continuous presence at the Shelter for the entire duration of a night of operation. The SA may also perform the function of Intake Supervisor at the start of a night, depending on staffing needs and the skills of the individual.

Requirements

• Genuine desire to work with socially disadvantaged and multi-ethnic populations, including the homeless and those with low incomes.
• Ability to organize and supervise a function.
• Ability to motivate and obtain willing cooperation from others.
• Team orientation with respect for others.
• Genuine respect for disadvantaged individuals.
• Ability to work nights.
• High ethical standards with a desire to look for work that needs to be done.
• Employees may not: Engage in romantic or sexual relationships with clients
• Employees may not: Use drugs or alcohol with clients, or while working
• Employees may not: Lend, donate, or accept money or gifts directly to or from clients
• Employees may not: Hire clients for personal work or services
• Employees may not: Communicate with clients via personal phone, email, or social media

Nice To Haves

• Crisis Intervention Team Training (CIT)

Responsibilities

• Maintains oversight and responsible supervision of guests using the emergency drop-in shelter facility in accordance with Porchlight Inc. policies and procedures to include standards dictated by the Porchlight Inc. employee manual and workplace anti-discrimination and harassment procedures.
• Demonstrates a keen understanding on the use of effective crisis de-escalation and active listening skills.
• Assists in the orientation of new and returning guests and answers their questions to provide low barrier use of the shelter.
• Follows the DIS Procedures regarding guest behavior, overflow shelter assignment (if necessary), detailed incident reporting per the written guidelines, and general operation.
• Issues blankets, towels and sheets to guests.
• Distributes supplies in accord with the DIS Procedures.
• Monitors the immediate needs of shelter guests and takes steps to assist them as appropriate.
• Monitors the behavior of shelter guests and takes steps to stop undesirable behavior.
• Maintains order.
• Calls for help as appropriate.
• Reports incidents accurately.
• Assists volunteer groups as needed in providing meals for the guests.
• Provides for an equitable distribution of stock food to guests in the event that a volunteer group cancels or does not arrive.
• Treats the guests with dignity and respect even during times of crisis.
• Respectfully signals lights out time and turns lights out at that time.
• Issues proper and appropriate wake-up calls in the morning.
• Ensures shelter cleanliness; performs nightly touch point and spot cleaning – per scheduled list according COVID-19 guidelines.
• Patrols the sleeping areas and restrooms periodically throughout the night.
• Provides advice and support to guests as appropriate.
• Recommends guests to the Shelter Case Managers for referrals to counseling and social services as needed/appropriate.
• Assists in overseeing the washing of blankets; assists with the blanket laundering as needed and general up-keep as time permits.
• Punctually opens and closes shelter within guidelines of Porchlight policy.
• Secures facility before opening and after closing.
• Performs other duties and takes on other responsibilities as directed by the Shelter Director.
• Works in collaboration with program and all other agency staff to facilitate a team environment.
• Demonstrates and models effective communication skills in building relationships with all clients and employees.
• Creates good working relationships with other service providers.
• Participates in the development and implementation of Porchlight's strategic plan.
• Treats all clients, employees, and visitors with caring, kindness, respect, and dignity.
• Helps to create an environment that values and appreciates diversity.
• Adheres to all Porchlight policies, procedures, code of conduct, and attendance rules.
• Maintains strict confidentiality of all information.
• Adheres to Porchlight policies in the use of computer technology and tele-communications devices.
• Conducts self within appropriate and expected professional boundaries and policies.
• Works with clients to eliminate barriers to shelter use.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed