Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate

POSITION TITLE

: Shelter Advocate

REPORTS TO

: Shelter Advocate Team Leader

RELATIONSHIPS

: Responsible to Shelter Advocate Team Leader. Does not supervise other employees. May work with interns or volunteers. Interrelates with all staff members. Interacts with personnel in other community agencies when providing advocacy for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. This is a 40 hour full time position.

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS

: Provides crisis intervention and advocacy and empowerment for survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual assault. Provides crisis intervention and advocacy on the 24 hour crisis line for survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual assault and completes appropriate paperwork as generated by each call. Screens and admits victims (with supervisor approval) and their children and completes intake paperwork for them by end of shift. Enters participant data into database as needed. Assists residents with problem-solving during times of crisis in shelter. Provides transportation for victims when necessary. Furthers the goals of Sunrise by working with residents and their children in an empowering way. Carries out responsibilities with participants in a fair and consistent manner. Ensures that residents' needs, such as linens, personal items, food, medications, and cleaning products are met. Be fully conversant with shelter operations policy, procedures and guidelines and administer them as per policy. Is respectful and non-judgmental in all dealings with participants and vendors. Assures that the facility is adequately maintained by shelter residents. Tests alarm system and conducts fire drills for the safety of the residents as often as requested by Shelter Advocate Team Leader Periodically checks grounds to ensure that all windows are closed, and outside lighting is working properly to ensure the security and safety of the shelter residents. Will maintain a liability/shelter safety focus at all times. Works with Law Enforcement as needed. Provides participants with access to community services such as housing, food stamps, transportation, medical needs etc. as indicated. Works with victims of DV and sexual assault to assess their own needs, develop and implement individualized service plans and support their progress in conjunction with Family Services team members. Assists with monthly statistical reports. Other duties as assigned by the Director of Shelter Services

SECONDARY FUNCTIONS

Assists with additional record keeping tasks.

PROHIBITED FUNCTIONS

: Does not respond to requests from media.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKI LLS

High School Diploma or GED Must have a valid Florida driver's license and up-to-date car insurance. Some formal education in counseling or social work is preferred. Training in domestic violence issues and crisis intervention may substitute for formal education at the discretion of the Director of Shelter. One year of crisis intervention experience is preferred. Knowledge of the dynamics and effects of domestic violence. Ability to show caring and empathy toward survivors of domestic violence. Ability to provide effective and immediate crisis intervention for participants. Ability to work independently and make sound judgments. Ability to establish and maintain personal boundaries. Ability to communicate positively, both verbally and in writing. Ability to keep concise, accurate records. Must be able to pass screening by FDLE and Pasco County Sheriff's Office Must be available to work any work shifts any day of the week. Must be able to work with a culturally diverse community with sensitivity and professionalism.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$15.45 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person