Shelter Advocate - MODEL CITIES OF ST PAUL INC

About the Position:

As a Shelter Advocate, you will add critical value to our operations, working under the direct supervision of the Program Manager or his/her designee. Your responsibilities will include maintaining a regular presence at Safe Space, providing support to clients, and offering guidance to staff and volunteers. Your role is instrumental in ensuring the shelter operates efficiently, and guests' basic needs are met.

This role will involve working closely with the Shelter Operations Coordinator to provide reliable overnight shelter coverage 365 days a year. The Shelter Advocate will participate in routine staffing coverage, including days, nights, and/or weekends, in rotation with other staff members.

For this role, we are looking for candidates with demonstrated leadership experience and the ability to thrive in high-stress environments. Strong people skills are necessary, as you will be interacting with shelter guests and collaborating with staff, volunteers, community partners, and other stakeholders.

The Role:

Ensures client data is entered into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) database system accurately and timely. Maintains confidentiality of all pertinent client information to ensure client rights are protected.

Actively participates in All Staff meetings, shelter team meetings, and other related agency meetings, as needed. Assists Program Manager and Shelter Operations Coordinator in planning and facilitating shelter team meetings on at least a monthly basis.

Assists in coordinating the inventory of shelter supplies. Works with other shelter staff to organize and manage the inventory of supplies needed for Safe Space shelter. Alerts the Program Manager and/or Shelter Operations Coordinator of shelter supplies needed.

Works with Program Manager and other agency staff to provide information as needed for reporting to funders, board of directors, and others.

Remains abreast of issues, opportunities, and trends impacting Safe Space, which may affect the agency’s planning and service delivery.

Essential duties and responsibilities:

Responsible for maintaining a regular presence at Safe Space, supporting clients, and offering guidance to staff and volunteers to ensure the shelter operates efficiently and guests' basic needs are met.

Works closely with the shelter team to assess guest needs and provide advocacy and referrals for housing, probation, healthcare, mental health, chemical dependency, and other services.

Actively participates in All Staff meetings, shelter team meetings, and other related agency meetings, as needed. Assists program manager and shelter operations coordinator in planning and facilitating monthly shelter team meetings.

Works with Program Manager and other agency staff to provide information as needed for reporting to funders, board of directors, and others.

Maintains cleanliness to standards

Respond to and complete incident reports for medical emergencies, chemical abuse, theft, threats, and violations of shelter guidelines.

Other duties assigned

Minimum Qualification:

High School Diploma or equivalent

Must possess a valid driver’s license

Must possess reliable transportation

Must be able to pass a background check.

Competencies Required

Social services/work experience

Leadership skills

Cooperative skills

Communication skills

Administrative skills

People skills

Intrapersonal skills

Adaptability skills

Ability to operate Microsoft Office and other software programs

Ability to use essential office equipment (copier, fax, scanner, etc.)

Critical thinking skills

Ability to work independently and in team environments

Preferred Requirements:

Experience working with vulnerable populations and/or individuals with lower incomes.

Advanced leadership and critical thinking skills

Advanced de-escalation skills and technique

Advanced communication skills

Job Requirements

Must be able to sit for extended periods

Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally

Must be able to stand, bend, and twist frequently

Weekend availability

Schedule:

Workdays may vary depending on business requirements.

Weekend and evening availability are required

Shift hours are based on the business needs, but are typically 4-6 hours approximately 20-28 hours.

EEO Statement:

Model Cities is dedicated to attracting, retaining, and engaging employees from diverse backgrounds. Diversity is an important part of our values and business operations. We are committed to creating an environment that promotes inclusivity and development for everyone. Model Cities does not discriminate based on age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, status regarding public assistance, status as a disabled veteran or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment, and reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified candidates.

High School Diploma or GED.

Must have at least one year of previous experience providing direct social services. Previous experience working in a nonprofit agency desired.

The shifts are awake overnight, primarily between the hours of 8:00 pm to 10:00 am. Must be available to work flexible hours; including daytime, overnight and weekends to support shelter operations.

Knowledge of community-based services related to mental health, chemical dependency, homeless services, and other supports for vulnerable populations is required. Demonstrated experience working with homeless population or other high-risk populations that are culturally diverse, required.

A valid Minnesota Driver’s license is required along with a good driving record. Must have access to a dependable car and maintain current auto insurance to transport supplies, donations and other items needed for the shelter.

Successful Criminal Background Screening is required for this position.

PI256859773