Shelter Advocate

Job Details

Job Location

Shelter, Ansonia, CT - Ansonia, CT

Position Type

Full Time

Education Level

High School

Travel Percentage

Up to 25%

Job Shift

Afternoon/evening

Job Category

Nonprofit - Social Services

Shelter Advocate

Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate

Are you passionate about helping survivors of domestic violence find safety, support, and hope? BHcare is seeking a caring and dedicatedDomestic Violence Shelter Advocateto provide direct support to adults and children in our safe house. This role is essential in creating a safe environment while empowering clients to heal, rebuild, and thrive.

This is a full-time position, 37.5 hours per week. The schedule is Monday-Friday 3pm-11pm.

What You'll Do:

• Welcome new residents and their children, complete intakes, and provide orientation to the shelter.

• Offer crisis intervention, safety planning, and emotional support to survivors and their families.

• Provide individual support and referrals to community resources such as healthcare, education, and social services.

• Facilitate transportation for clients to medical appointments, school, shopping, and activities.

• Collaborate with community partners, including law enforcement, hospitals, and other providers, to ensure client needs are met.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive shelter environment.

• Assist clients with developing and following through on service plans to achieve safety and independence.

• Cover the 24/7 hotline and respond to crisis calls with compassion and professionalism.

• Ensure all documentation is completed promptly and accurately.

What We're Looking For:

• Compassionate, reliable, and committed to supporting survivors of domestic violence.

• Strong communication and crisis intervention skills.

• Ability to remain calm, empathetic, and professional in challenging situations.

• Comfortable collaborating with both clients and external providers.

• Must remain awake and alert during shifts.

• Valid driver's license and willingness to use personal vehicle for work-related purposes.

Why Join BHcare?

At BHcare, you'll be part of a mission-driven team working to break the cycle of domestic violence and build stronger, safer communities. We offer a supportive environment where your work truly changes lives.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree preferred. In lieu of Bachelor's degree: Associates degree or college coursework equivalent (2 years) and 2 years work experience in human services; OR high school diploma and minimum of 4 years of experience in human services.

Substitution of appropriate college training is allowed but subject to funder's approval,

Two years Advocacy and/or direct service experience working with survivors of domestic violence in a community-based setting preferred.

Bi-lingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

Must be able to obtain and maintain the certified domestic violence counselor per CGS 52-146k before providing direct service to clients, followed with six-hour recertification yearly.

Strong Written Communication skills.

Ability to work effectively with a diverse range of clients.

Crisis intervention and counseling skills preferred.

Must be proficient in Microsoft 365. Must be able to navigate through electronic health records system (EHR).

Must have and maintain a valid driver's license. Must maintain an acceptable driving record and be insurable at a reasonable rate under the Organization's auto insurance plan.

PROFESSIONALLICENSURE /CERTIFICATIONS:

Must be able to obtain and maintain First Aid/CPR and AED certification