SSH & NSH Residential Advocate Per-Diem

RESIDENTIAL ADVOCATE

Reports to: Assistant Director 

Department: Residential Services

Original Date: December 2020   

Revised Date: January 2026

Job Status: Per Diem, Essential Worker 

Location: Stamford & Norwalk, CT 

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Travel Requirements: 20%

POSITION SUMMARY

The Residential Advocate is responsible for maintaining a safe, secure, and supportive residential environment for adults and children residing in Safe House locations. This role provides supportive counseling, advocacy, safety planning, crisis intervention, and educational services to survivors of domestic violence. The Residential Advocate works collaboratively with internal departments and external community partners to ensure residents’ immediate and long-term needs are met while upholding the mission, vision, and policies of the organization.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Client Support & Advocacy

• Provide ongoing emotional support, advocacy, and crisis intervention services to Safe House residents.
• Assist with case management, including advocacy related to housing, financial stability, safety planning, and access to resources.
• Provide information and referrals to community resources such as healthcare, mental health services, housing programs, public transportation, legal assistance, immigration services, food and clothing resources, schools, childcare, youth services, job training, and employment opportunities.
• Educate clients about the Victim Compensation Program and connect them with appropriate staff application completion.
• Support and advocate for survivors of domestic violence to promote safety, empowerment, and positive outcomes.

Intake, Documentation & Crisis Response

• Conduct initial screenings and intake documentation for new Safe House residents and individuals contacting the crisis hotline.
• Answer hotline and LAP line calls, providing crisis support, safety planning, referrals, and appropriate follow-up.
• Maintain accurate, timely service records, statistical data, and narrative reports in accordance with federal and state guidelines.
• Distribute and collect client satisfaction surveys upon program exit or fiscal year-end.

Safety, Security & Facility Maintenance

• Ensure the safety and security of residents at Safe House and hotel locations.
• Monitor and document resident compliance with program rules, including cleanliness, sign-in procedures, and program guidelines.
• Take initiative to address hazardous situations within the Safe House, including interior and exterior areas.
• Assist with maintaining cleanliness and organization of the Safe House, including garbage removal and proper storage of donations.
• Provide the same level of support and advocacy to clients placed in hotels as those residing in the Safe House.

Collaboration & Program Support

• Work collaboratively with other departments to coordinate services and meet client needs.
• Participate in weekly case conferences, staff meetings, and organization all trainings.
• Assist with conflict resolution among residents, encouraging respectful communication and problem-solving.
• Coordinate and implement Safe House activities, including holiday events and children’s programming.
• Take initiative to meet clients’ immediate needs, which may include travel to obtain essential items such as medication, diapers, or household supplies.

Policies, Procedures & Professional Development

• Adhere to established Safe House procedures, policies, and processes at all times.
• Maintain Domestic Violence Counselor certification, completing a minimum of six (6) hours of annual training related to domestic violence advocacy and job enhancement.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred in a related discipline preferred. High school diploma or equivalent required; relevant coursework or degree in social work, human services, or a related field preferred.
• Fluency in Spanish preferred.
• Completion of a 20-hour certification training, pursuant to CGS 52-146k is required upon hire.
• Experience working with survivors of domestic violence or vulnerable populations strongly preferred.
• Ability to work effectively in crisis situations with sensitivity, confidentiality, and professionalism.
• Strong communication, documentation, and organizational skills.
• Strong written, oral and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Willingness to travel locally to meet client needs as required.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and working phone.
• Ability to work with all levels of people and maintain a professional attitude and relationships.
• Ability to maintain the utmost confidentiality of all information, material and correspondence.

COMPENSATION

DVCC offers competitive compensation, excellent benefits, and a supportive workplace culture. The salary range for this position is $20-$22.00 per hour and prorated paid time off. Professional development opportunities are also encouraged. 

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Per-Diem position
• This is an in-person position. 
•  Must adhere to all DVCC and state/federal regulations.
• Must maintain confidentiality, ethical decision-making, and the mission and values of the agency.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

DVCC is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. DVCC does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

 
SIGNATURES

Prepared by: ___________________________________ Date: ____________________________

Approval Signature: _____________________________  Date: ____________________________

Employee Signature: ____________________________  Date: ____________________________

DVCC has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions, competencies and basic duties have been included. It is intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employee's ability to perform the position described. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. This document does not represent a contract of employment, and DVCC reserves the right to change this job description and/or assign tasks for the employee to perform, as DVCC may deem appropriate.