Housing Advocate

Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED and one-year experience in a forward-facing role, preferably a shelter environment.
• Must have a good understanding of the delivery of Social Services and community services.
• Ability to accept supervision and work well with colleagues.
• Work well with diverse clients and respect confidentiality; work within ethical and legal parameters.
• Computer literate; ability to use Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid Driver's License and must meet the MVR driver’s qualifications, preferred.
• Must pass The Salvation Army background checks.
• Must be able to successfully complete CPR/First Aid and Crisis Intervention.
• Must be willing to support the philosophy, goals, objectives, and mission of The Salvation Army.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Maintain positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in a manner that fosters good relationships with co-workers and supervisors.
• Resolve conflicts in a professional manner; courteous treatment of staff, visitors and clients; respect of others’ property and person, professional and appropriate communication to and about co-workers, supervisors, and subordinates.
• Treat every client, donor, and colleague with respect and dignity, and without discrimination of any kind.
• Engage all community members in a way that brings them to the Corps for programming, events, and Pathway of Hope.
• Client Care:
• Develop and maintain a positive rapport with clients.
• Support clients in following rules and expectations, providing accountability, as needed.
• Monitor clients and program areas, including during meal times and by performing routine rounds.
• Provide clients with information and resources, including available community resources.
• Orient clients to the program and complete the intake process and paperwork.
• Safely recognize and respond to crises, verbally deescalating and requesting Security’s assistance.
• Competently follow the Harbor Light Safety and Security Management Plan.

Additional Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate, professional, timely, and non-judgmental verbal and written communication.
• Complete all paperwork in a timely manner, e.g., logs, incident reports, statistics, etc.
• Perform general cleaning of program spaces, ensure laundry goes to Housekeeping; inventory unit linens and supplies; requisition items as needed.
• Ensure areas contaminated with body fluids are cleaned and disinfected in a safe and timely manner.

Position Summary

The Housing Advocate is responsible for providing a supportive environment while meeting the needs of clients. The Advocate provides the highest level of care while ensuring the health and safety of clients. This is a regular position.