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THE GENIEVE SHELTER

Intake Specialist/Legal Advocate Job Description Position Summary The Intake Specialist/Legal Advocate provides timely crisis intervention and emergency response to individuals seeking assistance through The Genieve Shelter crisis hotline or in person. The position responds to emergency intake needs involving domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and stalking; screens requests for shelter and community services; and helps connect survivors and their families with safe placements, resources, and referrals. The Intake Specialist/Legal Advocate also provides court accompaniment and support to victims, maintains accurate client records and completes required documentation in agency files and applicable systems, including ECM and VADATA. Essential Job Responsibilities 1. Screen requests for emergency shelter and community assistance; complete hotline documentation and intake assessments; conduct crisis interviews as needed; and determine appropriate next steps based on the caller's immediate needs and safety concerns. 2. Coordinate shelter intake and placement for eligible individuals and families. When appropriate, assist survivors with obtaining emergency protective orders, provide accompaniment to the magistrate's office, arrange transportation, and coordinate safe placement for people facing immediate danger. 3. Provide information, referrals, and connections to appropriate community services. Coordinate with staff to support children's intake needs when a family enters shelter. 4. Request and collect copies of necessary documents, such as photo identification and Social Security cards, when available and appropriate. Complete required health-status screening in accordance with current agency policies and applicable guidance. 5. Complete intake forms, document crisis interventions and referrals, prepare new intake packets for shelter and community clients, and maintain accurate and timely client records in paper files, the master file document, ECM, VADATA, and other required agency systems. 6. Prepare monthly statistical reports and other intake-related reports as assigned, ensuring that information is complete, accurate, and submitted by required deadlines. 7. Arrange for emergency shelter or local motel placement and provide or coordinate food, hygiene products, and other immediate necessities after intake, consistent with agency procedures and available resources. 8. Respond to walk-in emergencies at the administrative office and other designated agency locations. Before the end of the shift, notify evening staff of pending intakes and coordinate a backup plan when needed. 9. Remain on-site at the Administrative/Resource Center or designated emergency shelter during assigned working hours, as required by the schedule and agency needs. 10. Provide court and magistrate/police department accompaniment services to victims of violence as they navigate issues pertaining to the abuse including filing for protective orders, criminal charges, etc. and refer clients to additional legal resources. 11. Follow The Genieve Shelter's Emergency Response Policy when individuals or families are in immediate danger and shelter beds are unavailable, including established procedures for alternative placement. 12. Work collaboratively with case managers, interns, and other staff to coordinate client services and support continuity of care. 13. Complete all required shift-to-shift communication, documentation, recordkeeping, and reporting procedures to ensure relevant information is communicated accurately and securely. 14. Transport clients in agency vehicles between safe locations and emergency shelter or other approved destinations, following agency transportation and safety procedures. 15. Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervisor or Executive Director. Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree (B.A. or B.S.) in social work, counseling, criminal justice, or a related discipline.
• Some experience in crisis intervention involving survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual assault.
• Working knowledge of issues affecting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, projects, and competing priorities in a fast-paced, crisis-response environment.
• Knowledge of the dynamics of domestic violence, including power and control, and the impact of abuse on survivors and families.
• Understanding of empowerment-based, survivor-centered service principles and the ability to apply them respectfully in interactions with clients, volunteers, and staff.
• Knowledge of victims' legal rights and general procedures for seeking emergency protective orders.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365 applications, including Outlook for email and calendar management, Word for creating and formatting documents, and Excel for maintaining spreadsheets, organizing data, and completing basic calculations. Ability to use PowerPoint, Teams, and other office or collaboration tools as needed.
• Ability to use computers, telephone systems, and electronic recordkeeping or case-management systems; ability to learn agency-specific databases and procedures.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills in English. Spanish proficiency preferable.
• Ability to work effectively within a team-based service-delivery model and communicate clearly across shifts.
• Ability to maintain accurate, timely, confidential records and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive client information.
• Valid Virginia driver's license and a reasonably clean driving record. Required Physical Abilities and Work Activities
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to safely operate an agency motor vehicle, including a car, truck, or van.
• Ability to walk, climb, reach, and move about designated work locations as required.
• Ability to conduct and attend meetings.
• Ability to sort and handle donated clothing, food, and other supplies.

Acknowledgment:

This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties may be adjusted in accordance with agency needs.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The Genieve Shelter is an equal opportunity employer committed to maintaining a workplace that is respectful, inclusive, and free from discrimination. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We welcome and encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply. We are committed to fair hiring practices and to providing equal employment opportunities throughout the employment relationship. Join us to be part of a dedicated team committed to providing accessible legal support. We value proactive individuals who excel in organization and communication—ready to make a difference by guiding clients through complex legal processes with confidence. This paid position offers an engaging environment where your skills will directly contribute to empowering those seeking justice.

Pay:

$17.00 - $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person