Shelter-Crisis-Advocate-Plano 4pm-12am

Hopes Door•Plano, TX

6d•$15 - $16

About The Position

The Shelter Crisis Advocate provides support and information to Crisis Line callers and shelter residents at the Garland and Plano shelters. The role promotes the safety, empowerment, and optimal mental health of people affected by domestic violence through advocacy, crisis intervention, and support services. The position is hourly and non-exempt, pays $15–$16 per hour, and reports to the Shelter Services Coordinator.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Ability to respond constructively and supportively to adults and children in crisis situations.
Sensitivity to varying cultural, ethnic, and social backgrounds.
Ability to type.
Ability to present information effectively and respond to questions from groups of clients and volunteers.
Reasoning ability to comprehend program delivery within a collaborative networking system.
Ability to solve practical problems and handle varied situations where standardization is limited.
Ability to interpret written, oral, diagrammatic, or schedule-based instructions.
Valid Texas driver's license and a good driving record.
Reliable transportation with current required Texas liability coverage, and ability to travel among multiple sites.
Ability to lift more than 10 pounds.
Ability to function as a team member.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field.
Crisis counseling knowledge and/or experience.
Knowledge of social services or mental health.
One year of experience working with victims of domestic violence.
Bilingual English and Spanish.

Responsibilities

Provide crisis intervention through the 24-hour Crisis Line during the assigned shift.
Maintain accurate client files and records in the computer database and in hard copy.
Update the communication log throughout each shift.
Update client records in Salesforce accurately and by the end of each shift.
Conduct client intakes and exits as needed.
Arrange emergency transportation as needed.
Share client concerns and necessary information with appropriate staff, and follow up as needed.
Maintain and assist with general communal household needs.
Train and collaborate with shelter volunteers scheduled during the assigned shift.
Understand program objectives and how they relate to agency goals.
Assess clients’ physical, social, and emotional needs and apply appropriate interventions.
Treat clients with respect, dignity, and empathy, and establish rapport with clients and their children.
Keep client information confidential.
Provide education and information to help clients make informed choices.
Deliver programs and services respectfully and sensitively to clients’ cultural experiences.
Follow applicable policies and procedures in the event of a pandemic.
Prevent, identify, and remove discriminatory barriers in services.
Develop and maintain current knowledge and expertise regarding domestic violence.
Attend training as needed to maintain accurate and adequate knowledge in the domestic violence field.
Participate in shelter staff meetings.
Be available to work any shift, at either shelter location, as needed; work at either outreach location as needed; and work at least one weekend per month and holidays.
Perform other duties as assigned.