Residential Advocate

Residential/Shelter

Part-Time / Non-Exempt

Galveston, Texas

** This is a Part-time overnight shift position - Schedule: Friday 11:00pm to 8:00am; Saturday 8:00pm to 8:00am; Sunday 7:00pm to 11:00pm

JOB SUMMARY

The Residential Advocate is dedicated to providing support, information, advocacy, safety planning and crisis intervention services to victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault and their children who are residing in the Resource & Crisis Center of Galveston County, Inc. (RCC) 24/7 emergency shelter. The Residential Advocate assures that the shelter is a safe, welcoming refuge for survivors.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Provide clients with orientation and assist with intakes as needed for shelter.
• Provide crisis intervention, peer counseling, safety planning, information and referrals, and advocacy to clients residing in shelter.
• Assure shelter operates in an orderly manner and is safe and welcoming for all residents.
• Communicate effectively with other members of RCC team in to ensure the most up-to-date information and appropriate follow-up for clients.
• Assist survivors with arranging for transportation to and from appointments.
• Assist in answering calls received over the hotline.
• Inform clients about domestic violence and community services, making necessary referrals and assist in planning for resources they may need when they move into another program.
• Assist in facilitation of house meetings with residents.
• Complete required documentation and enter data into client database in an accurate and timely manner.
• Maintain all records including service delivery records, advocacy plans and other documentation per confidentiality guidelines.
• Maintain daily guest communications log, and document changes in policies/procedures,
• Initiate and help plan special shelter events.
• Attend relevant staff meetings, trainings, or agency/community events as directed.
• Assist other staff with direct service responsibilities.
• Other duties as assigned.

WORK SCHEDULE

This is a part-time overnight shift position - Schedule: Friday 11:00pm to 8:00am; Saturday 8:00pm to 8:00am; Sunday 7:00pm to 11:00pm

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to operate various office machines and/or equipment; and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to speak and hear clearly. The employee is frequently required to stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and lift approximately 20 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job. include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

The work environment characteristics described herein are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job which is primarily an office environment.

SUPERVISOR AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

This position reports to the Client Services Manager. There are no direct reports to this position.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Required:

• Minimum of two (2) years of work experience in social services or a related field; work experience must closely align with the essential job functions listed above.
• High School diploma or GED certification.
• Possess the ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Commitment to supporting and empowering victims of crime and advocating against violence and sexual violence in our community and our society.
• Must be able to establish rapport with others and always maintain healthy boundaries.
• Must be able to present oneself in an appropriately personable and professional manner to clients and staff.
• Must be able to weigh and evaluate personal needs, client needs and the aims and policies of RCCGC, and to respond and negotiate these competing needs as appropriate.
• Must be able to remain calm and supportive in psychological emergencies and/or crises.
• Must be polite, compassionate, courteous, and tactful with the public, victims, their families, Law Enforcement and other agency staff.
• Must have an enhanced level of self-awareness around how he or she relates to others and an ability to effectively modify this personal style as conditions warrant.
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook.

Preferred:

• Bilingual (English/Spanish).
• Knowledge, experience, and demonstration of skill in any or all of the following: crisis intervention; hotline and emergency response; victim’s rights and available services; domestic violence; sexual violence; law enforcement and court procedures.
• Knowledge and experience with trauma theory and working with survivors of trauma.
• CPR and First Aid Certification.