Position Summary The Advocates support survivors of domestic and sexual violence, dating violence, stalking, and any form of intimate partner violence by providing emotional support, crisis intervention, information and referrals, through in-person and over the crisis line interactions. Advocates are an essential part of the Mercy Home direct services team. They work collaboratively with YWCA Great Falls staff and community partners, maintain confidentiality, document services accurately, and respond appropriately to routine, urgent, and crisis situations. The position also contributes to the safe and effective operation of the shelter. Position Roles and Responsibilities Survivor Advocacy & Support Provide empowering, compassionate, trauma-informed support to survivors. Provide advocacy, information, emotional support, problem-solving, and referrals to community resources. Respond to telephone and in-person inquiries and provide information about Mercy Home services and other available resources. Answer Crisis Line during hours of work. Complete shelter screening, admission, orientation, and related intake processes. Respond calmly and effectively to crisis situations. Assess immediate safety needs and assist survivors in developing or following individualized safety plans. Respond appropriately to urgent calls, safety concerns, medical emergencies, law-enforcement contacts, and other situations. Maintain a safe and supportive environment while using de-escalation, clear communication, and professional boundaries. Documentation, Confidentiality & Data Integrity Maintain accurate and timely documentation of contacts, services, referrals, intakes, and other required activities. Complete required statistics, logs, forms, and database entries. Protect confidential information and follow YWCA Mercy Home confidentiality requirements and applicable Montana law, including advocate privilege requirements. Safeguard client information in conversations, written records, electronic systems, and interactions with outside parties. Shelter Operations, Safety & Environmen t Contribute to a clean, organized, welcoming, and safe shelter environment. Complete food bank pickups, laundry, transportation support, building security, and other shelter-support activities. Assist with opening, securing, and maintaining the facility. Coordinate and assist with ongoing and as-needed building maintenance tasks at the shelter facility Report maintenance, safety, security, supply, or other concerns to the Shelter Coordinator or appropriate staff. Communication, Teamwork & Professional Development Communicate important participant, safety, operational, and program information clearly and promptly with appropriate staff. Participate in staff meetings, case coordination, supervision, trainings, and other meetings as assigned. Work collaboratively and respectfully with Mercy Home staff, YWCA staff, volunteers, and community partners. Participate in required training and maintain knowledge and skills relevant to domestic violence advocacy, trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, cultural responsiveness, confidentiality, and shelter operations. Contribute to a positive workplace culture that values respect, accountability, collaboration, and employee well-being. Essential Competencies Demonstrated ability to listen without judgment and support survivors in making their own informed decisions. Strong interpersonal, verbal, written, and documentation skills. Ability to remain calm, flexible, and effective during high-stress or unpredictable situations. Sound judgment and ability to make timely, ethical decisions within agency policies and scope of responsibility. Ability to establish and maintain professional boundaries. Ability to work independently while recognizing when consultation or additional support is needed. Commitment to trauma-informed, survivor-centered, culturally responsive, and empowerment-based services. Ability to work respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds, experiences, cultures, identities, and circumstances. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately. Knowledge of or willingness to learn community resources and systems relevant to survivors. Commitment to the mission and values of YWCA Great Falls. Preferred Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent. Experience providing direct services to similar populations preferred. Provide trauma-informed care while maintaining clear and firm personal boundaries. Understanding of mental health, trauma, co-occurring issues, diversity, and cultural competency. Ability to adapt and cope with high-stress situations. Ability to mediate and resolve conflicts while providing support to shelter residents. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Strong time management skills. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Proficiency in the use of computer systems such as Excel, Microsoft Office, and client databases. Must have valid driver's license, lift up to 40 lbs., and work under conditions including but not limited to variable weather, noise, and other potentially unpredictable situations. Equal Opportunity & Inclusion YWCA Great Falls is committed to an inclusive workplace and to providing services with dignity, respect, and equity. We value individuals with diverse backgrounds, identities, experiences, and perspectives. Employment decisions are made consistent with applicable law and organizational policy.

Pay:

From $16.00 per hour

Benefits:

403(b) 403(b) matching Paid time off People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location:

In person