Shelter Advocate

YWCA Cass Clay is seeking a full-time Shelter Advocate to provide comprehensive case management services to women and children residing in the Emergency Shelter. This position plays a critical role in promoting participant safety, stability, and empowerment while ensuring the overall security and smooth operation of the shelter environment.

Job Duties: Schedule and facilitate regular meetings with participants to support progress in areas such as employment, education, financial stability, healthy relationships, and children’s needs. Conduct intake assessments and develop individualized goal plans and safety plans. Monitor and document participant progress, maintaining accurate and up-to-date records.

Communicate relevant participant information to appropriate YWCA staff while maintaining confidentiality. Serve as a liaison to community resources, including housing programs, landlords, government agencies, and other local service providers. Complete intake screenings to admit women and children into shelter services.

Orient new participants to shelter guidelines and expectations, ensuring consistent enforcement of policies and procedures. Maintain the safety and security of the shelter by monitoring phones, door access, security systems, fire alarms, and completing required safety checks. Train, support, and provide feedback to interns, volunteers, and Shelter Support Specialists.

Participate in the on-call rotation and assist with shift coverage as needed. Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Female (BFOQ). Bachelor’s degree in a behavioral science field such as social work, Child Development and Family Science (CDFS), sociology, criminal justice, or human services required. Current First Aid and CPR certification (or ability to obtain upon hire). Ability to effectively manage a high-volume workload in a fast-paced environment.

Must successfully meet all background check requirements. Flexibility to work varied hours, including on-call, evening, and weekend shifts. Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills. Demonstrated knowledge of domestic violence, homelessness, mental health, substance use, and child development. Knowledge of local community resources and the ability to navigate and collaborate within social service systems.

Valid driver’s license and proof of current vehicle insurance required. Demonstrate understanding of, appreciation for, and commitment to the mission of YWCA Cass Clay: eliminating racism and empowering women.