What are the responsibilities and job description for the Shelter Night Advocate position at YWCA Greater Lafayette?
Position Summary
The Shelter Night Advocate is responsible for providing overnight supervision, crisis intervention, and support to shelter residents while ensuring compliance with shelter policies and safety protocols. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, the ability to handle crisis situations, and a compassionate, survivor-centered approach to working with individuals in trauma.
This position also involves light maintenance of shelter facilities, monitoring of supplies, and data entry to support program operations. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the challenges survivors face, be highly adaptable, and demonstrate a strong commitment to YWCA’s mission.
Essential Responsibilities:
Provide compassionate crisis intervention, intake processing, and safety planning for residents and non-residents in need of emergency assistance during overnight hours.
- Be mindful of resident well-being, ensuring a safe, supportive, and respectful environment for all shelter occupants.
- Assist survivors in navigating legal and medical systems, including reporting to law enforcement, securing protection orders, and coordinating forensic exams.
- Conduct regular check-ins with residents, offering emotional support while maintaining professional boundaries.
- Complete shift reports and necessary documentation regarding shelter activities, incidents, and resident concerns in alignment with program and funding requirements.
- Attend YWCA staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
Knowledge and Experience:
- Associate degree in Social Work, Public Health, Nonprofit Management, or a related field (Bachelor’s degree preferred).
- Prior experience in social services, crisis response, or emergency shelter environments is strongly preferred.
- Strong knowledge of victim rights, crisis intervention techniques, and community resources.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with varying stakeholders.
- Commitment to the mission of eliminating racism and empowering women
Preferred Qualifications:
- Familiarity with trauma-informed care principles.
- Bilingual abilities (Spanish) are a plus.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and on-call shifts.
- Must pass a criminal background check in accordance with YWCA policies.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.
Physical/Mental Essential Requirements:
- Walking, standing, bending, stooping, reaching, moderate lifting and carrying (up to thirty (30) pounds).
- Full range of body motion including manual and finger dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
- Ability to sit at a computer workstation for extended periods of time.
- Occasional need to stand for long periods of time.
- Ability to focus on detail and accuracy of work product.
- Occasional high stress may be experienced in dealing with clients, staff, and volunteers.
- Must obtain 10 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) annually in topics related to domestic violence intervention, trauma-informed care, and crisis response
