GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This multifaceted Helpline Advocate position is responsible for maintaining the crisis line, business phone line and texting line, assisting victims, survivors and the public. Advocates interact with Crisis Shelter residents and facilitate meeting their needs as they arise. Ensures the safety/security of the building. This position requires strong active listening and communication skills, demonstrated problem solving ability and above average organization and time management talents.
QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience is required. Two years of experience providing support to survivors in crisis; two years of experience in a related field or shelter/housing advocacy preferred. Knowledge of facts and dynamics of domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse preferred. Knowledge of community resources. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Ability to communicate with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Must have valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
- Responds to incoming Helpline calls and texts
- Orients new Crisis Shelter residents as needed, in absence of shelter advocates
- Completes intake paperwork with shelter residents as needed, in absence of shelter advocates
- Provides crisis intervention and support for shelter residents as needed
- Provides referrals and advocacy to Helpline callers and to shelter residents
- Provides shelter residents with items needed for their stay
- Completes all documentation and record keeping duties in keeping with the standards established by the agency and related funders
- Provides respite for parents as needed
- Assists with transportation as needed
- Ensures safety and security of shelter facility; responsible for disarming the building’s alarm system as needed
- Facilitates shelter resident check-out procedures by distributing and collecting resident evaluation forms and conducting room checks prior to resident departures in the absence of shelter advocates and Residential Supervisor.
- Completes daily log as required
- Communicates with clinical and advocacy program staff regarding intakes, schedules and requests for services
- Adheres to confidentiality policy as it relates to shelter residents, clients, and all aspects of agency operations, which include records, reports and discussions
- Behaves in a manner consistent with LACASA Philosophies and Standards of Conduct as outlined in the LACASA Staff Handbook
- Maintains a safe environment for staff, clients and the community
- Attends and participates in all meetings as required
- Performs all other duties as assigned
- This position does not have professional supervisory responsibilities
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Requires speaking to callers frequently throughout shift
- Requires working on a computer for prolonged time periods
- Ability to occasionally lift items weighing up to 15 pounds is required
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are essential
SCHEDULE: Regular Full-time/Non-Exempt Status
SUPERVISOR: Residential Supervisor
LACASA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer & Workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, pregnancy status, ethnicity, national origin, age, citizenship status, marital status, physical or mental disability, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation and/or Veteran status. LACASA is a 501(c)3 organization.
To apply, please send a resume and cover letter via mail, email or fax to:
LACASA Center
Human Resources
2895 W. Grand River Ave.
Howell, MI 48843
Email: hr@lacasacenter.org
Phone: (517) 548-1350
Fax: (517) 548-3034
