Domestic Violence Advocate

About the role

The Program YWCA Resolve is a Family Domestic Violence Program offering 24/7 shelter, a help hotline, pet shelter, and emergency intervention for victims of domestic violence. The Position: Domestic Violence Advocate (Residential & Crisis Support).

Responsibilities

• Respond to crisis calls
• Assist survivors with safety planning
• Model healthy communication and conflict resolution within the shelter community
• Maintain the warmth and stability of the home by helping settle house disputes
• Support residents with daily living skills
• Assist with shared responsibilities such as cooking, light cleaning, and overall care of the residence

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience responding to crisis situations (hotline calls, de-escalation, emotional support, or emergency response)
• Experience supporting individuals from diverse and underserved populations, including survivors of trauma, housing instability, or family violence
• Familiarity with safety planning, empowerment-based advocacy, and trauma-informed care practices
• Experience in a communal or residential setting (shelter, group home, campus housing, childcare, or similar environment) where shared living dynamics and conflict resolution are required
• Proven ability to model healthy communication and boundaries, mediate minor disputes, and maintain a calm, respectful environment
• Experience assisting with life-skills support such as cooking, cleaning routines, household organization, and reinforcing shared community expectations
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation, follow confidentiality standards, and adhere to program policies and safety protocols

Skills & Experience

• High School Diploma (or equivalent) or years of experience in a relevant field
• Must be willing to work holidays, during inclement weather, and residential health outbreaks, such as the flu
• Preference given to applicants with relevant training or certifications (or willingness to obtain), such as: Domestic violence or sexual assault advocacy training, Crisis intervention or hotline training, Trauma-informed care, CPR/First Aid, Mandated reporter training

About YWCA Charleston

The YWCA Charleston has been fostering self-sufficiency and independence. Originally designed as safe lodging for young women from rural communities coming to Charleston to pursue careers, the YWCA has evolved into the city’s most diverse and comprehensive network of social service programs. YWCA programs, facilities, and services assist more than 5,000 individuals annually. Equal opportunity is given to all applicants. The YWCA was built upon our mission of eliminating racism and empowering women. We can continue to be successful when people are treated fairly and allowed to grow and achieve their potential. We take pride in treating people equally, regardless of race, color, religion, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, sex, gender identity, age, national origin, blindness, sexual orientation, or any legally protected status.