Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate

About the role

The Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate provides trauma-informed supportive services for clients participating in our domestic violence emergency shelter program with a primary focus on ensuring client safety and stability. Additionally, this position serves as the primary contact on our 24-hour crisis hotline to provide immediate assistance to domestic violence victims and the community.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Utilizes a trauma-informed and client-centered approach to provide ongoing support to domestic violence survivors including crisis intervention, safety planning, needs assessment, and coordinating resources and services.
• Answers the 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline to provide immediate assistance to survivors and the general public including conducting application interviews, shelter intakes, and providing referrals to community resources.
• Affords assistance to residential clients with accessing program services, connecting to resources, and understanding and complying with program guidelines and policies.
• Collaborates with other program staff to ensure appropriate services are provided in compliance with program protocols and follows through on assigned tasks.
• Maintains timely and accurate completion of data entry and reporting, including hotline information, client status updates, incident reports, and other programmatic requirements.
• Maintains shelter facility standards to provide a clean, safe, and secure environment for clients. Reports any maintenance or security needs to appropriate parties.
• Safeguards compliance with all agency policies and procedures for employees and clients, including but not limited to confidentiality, safety protocols, legal requirements, ethical standards, and administrative procedures.
• Participates in staff meetings including supervision, case conferences, trainings, and other agency requirements.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in social work or other human services field required. Minimum of one-year social services experience, residential setting preferred; or a combination of relevant education and experience.
• Experience working with domestic violence survivors and families in a professional setting preferred.
• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish/English preferred.
• Completion of the 40-hour Domestic Violence training as approved by the State of California, or ability to successfully complete certification within six months of hire, required.
• Demonstrated proficiency in trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to work respectfully, non-judgmentally, and professionally with diverse populations in a culturally competent manner, including YWCA program participants, employees, volunteers, agency partners, and the community at large.
• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations demonstrating strong interpersonal skills, excellent oral and written communication skills, and effective listening skills.
• Ability to maintain a professional and calm demeanor during stressful situations and determine appropriate solutions consistent with established policies and procedures.