Clay Street Overnight Shelter

About the Role

The Overnight Shelter Associate plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the shelter during nighttime hours (7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.). This position provides direct assistance to shelter residents, facilitates intake procedures, assigns beds, and supports clients in settling into the shelter environment. The role operates on a rotating 12-hour shift schedule, offering consistent coverage and work-life balance.

Responsibilities

• Provide support and assistance to shelter residents throughout the night, offering guidance, empathy, and practical help as needed.
• Rotate between tasks including check-in procedures, monitoring showers, assigning beds, distributing supplies, and assisting clients with basic needs.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and orderly environment within the shelter, adhering to established protocols and safety guidelines.
• Conduct intake procedures for new arrivals, including completing paperwork, explaining shelter rules, and orienting individuals to facilities and resources.
• Collaborate with case managers and staff to assess residents' needs, identify concerns, and provide appropriate support and referrals.
• Offer emotional support, active listening, and crisis intervention to individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Assist clients in accessing additional services such as meals, clothing, hygiene supplies, medical care, and housing assistance.
• Work collaboratively with other staff members to ensure continuity of care and effective communication across shifts.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and debriefing sessions to enhance teamwork and service delivery.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (preferred).
• Previous experience working in a shelter, residential facility, or similar environment preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds with empathy and respect.
• Basic knowledge of crisis intervention techniques, conflict resolution, and trauma-informed care principles.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, handle sensitive information, and follow established protocols.
• Must work overnight shifts, including weekends and holidays as required.
• Obtain Criminal background check, Child Abuse Clearance, and FBI fingerprint clearance.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Work in a high-stress environment, assisting clients with urgent needs such as intake procedures, crisis intervention, or emergencies.
• Communicate effectively through clear speaking and attentive listening.
• Occasionally lift and move items weighing up to 30 pounds.
• Flexibility to work rotating shifts, including overnight shifts, weekends, and holidays.

Schedule

Follow a rotating 12-hour shift schedule organized into a 2-2-3 pattern, providing consistent coverage. Benefits include two or three consecutive days off in a row, as well as every other weekend off, to promote work-life balance.

Benefits

• FREE membership to all YMCA of the Roses branches.
• Access to outdoor pools, fitness centers, gyms, and wellness facilities.
• Discounts on YMCA programs and lessons.
• Opportunity to serve and strengthen the Lancaster community.

Our Culture

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.

• Welcoming: We are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become.
• Genuine: We value you and embrace your individuality.
• Hopeful: We believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world.
• Nurturing: We support you in your journey to develop your full potential.
• Determined: Above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.