Our dynamic nonprofit organization is the only agency of its kind in Michigan—and one of just a few in the nation—that provides all services under one roof for victims and survivors of child abuse, domestic violence and sexual violence. We offer more than 35 programs and services at no charge for victims and their families, and we employ over 70 staff members. Our recently-built facility provides an empowering environment for victims, survivors, and their families. It also offers a state-of-the-art workplace for our staff. We are committed to collaboration, diversity and inclusiveness in everything we do. If you are passionate about our mission, we invite you to explore this career opportunity with LACASA Center.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Our Shelter Advocate provides essential support in our Crisis Shelter. This is a professional human service position that facilitates day-to-day communal living among victim residents through the provision of crisis intervention, emotional support, information, referrals and advocacy. Under general supervision, the shelter advocate/facilitator provides low barrier harm reduction trauma informed support and assistance to women, men and children in crisis. This position requires strong skills in crisis intervention, advocacy, organization, and knowledge of child abuse, domestic violence and sexual violence.
QUALIFICATIONS: A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience is required. We highly prefer a minimum of two years’ experience providing support for women and/or children in crisis, and two years of experience in a related field such as women’s advocacy, women’s shelter, women’s transitional housing, or second stage housing. Knowledge of facts and dynamics surrounding child abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault preferred, along with knowledge about community resources. Excellent communication skills are essential to communicate with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Must have valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Orients new clients to the shelter and its guidelines and expectations; enforces shelter guidelines and expectations
- Promotes and assists clients with creating a safe and cooperative living environment within shelter
- Facilitates weekly resident meetings to determine residents’ needs
- Provides parenting support, incorporating a women centered, culturally sensitive, strength based approach
- Assists with transportation for survivors as needed
- Provides follow up services with survivors
- Assists with responsibilities in our shelter’s Safe Pet Place area
- Provides case management and appropriate direct services, including social casework, to clients within the residential programs
- Provides respite for parents, as needed
- Provides recreational and non-traditional therapeutic activities for children
- Records and maintains clinical documentation, in keeping with the standards established by the agency and related funders
- Makes appropriate referrals and advocates for individuals and families to other agencies when appropriate
- Attends and participates in all meetings as required
- Assists in the development of client services
- Networks and advocates with the community around client identified needs and issues for victims of domestic violence
- Provides crisis counseling, intervention, and referrals through agency helpline, and for clients, as needed
- Works collaboratively with counselors, advocates, and volunteers regarding client activities and services
- Continues to develop oneself as a professional through supervision and training
- Adheres to ethical standards of one’s individual profession
- Adheres to confidentiality policy as it relates to shelter residents, clients and all aspects of agency operations; records, reports, and discussions
- Behaves in a manner consistent with LACASA Philosophies, Standards of Conduct and LACASA Staff Handbook
- Attends and participates in all meetings as required
- Performs all other duties as assigned
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Frequent periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
- Occasionally required to lift items weighing up to 25 pounds
- Frequent traversing of shelter facility
- Occasional bending, stooping and reaching
- Frequent communication with residents, coworkers and outside agencies
Schedule: Regular Full-time/Non-Exempt Employee (8hrs/day, 40hrs/week)
Supervisor: Residential Supervisor
BENEFITS
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Floating Birthday Holiday
- Paid Holidays
- Generous Earned Time Off Plan
- 403b Retirement Account with Employer Matching
- Voluntary Short/Long Term Disability and Supplemental Life
- Mileage Reimbursement
If you meet or exceed the qualifications for this position, please send your resume and cover letter to hr@lacasacenter.org.
LACASA is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunities 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.
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