Relief Direct Service Advocate_DV Shelter

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering survivors. The YW provides a safe place for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our programs and services include crisis shelter and transitional housing for survivors and their families, counseling, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, community education, supervised visitation, and vocational training for youth. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus.

 The YWCA is seeking a Direct Service Advocate for our Domestic Violence Shelter Services in Springfield, MA. The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen, and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations.

Job Title: Direct Service Advocate

Reports to: Assistant Program Director

Schedule: 3 Shifts per month

Starting Rate $21.00/hr

FLSA Status: Non Exempt 

Primary Responsibilities for the position include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct shelter intakes as needed.
• Provide crisis intervention and counseling as needed.
• Help residents become acquainted with shelter and other residents and provide counseling to resident upon arrival.
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to:  vacuuming, laundry area, shoveling, mopping, and take trash out).
• Enforce shelter rules and guidelines.
• Engage with residents at meal time and ensure that residents clean up their area prior to leaving dining area.
• Complete all required paperwork and maintain client records.

 Qualifications

• Associate’s degree plus 1 - 3 years of experience in human services;
• Experience working in residential setting;
• Familiarity with issues of domestic violence;
• Experience with survivors of gender-based violence and exploitation;
• Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on multiple communities;
• Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
• Ability to represent agency from a management perspective in an active union environment;
• Excellent written and organizational skills including computer skills;
• Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy; and

Physical Requirements

Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 150-day Introductory Period.