#18158178
12/12/2022
Springfield
MA
Hour
Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors

Description

Residential Programs
1608_Direct Service Advocate_Every Other Weekend_2nd shift_PT

Department: Domestic Violence Shelter Services (DVSS)
Reports to: Site Director, DVSS
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Starting Rate: $17.00/hour
Schedule: Every Other Weekend, Saturday and Sunday, 3pm-11pm

2 positions available

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.

Summary

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to residents of the YW’s emergency shelter for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. The DSA is an important member of a trauma-informed, multidisciplinary team working to address the whole needs of survivors. Additionally, the 2nd shift DSA will answer the YW’s 24-hour, bilingual hotline as well as warmline for homeless survivors.

Duties and Responsibilities

Conduct shelter screenings and intakes as needed.
Provide crisis intervention as needed.
Help residents become acquainted with shelter and other residents upon arrival.
Provide counseling to resident upon arrival and as needed throughout their stay.
Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to: vacuuming, laundry, shoveling, mopping).
Ensure residents are following shelter schedule, including wake up times as applicable.
Model and promote shelter rules and guidelines.
Assist with children’s groups as needed.
Regularly engage with residents especially during meals.
Ensure completion of chores as applicable.
Complete all required paperwork.
Maintain client records.
Ensure parents / guardians supervise children, including at bedtime as applicable.
Prepare rooms for residents including washing, drying and putting away linen.
Attend monthly staff meetings.
Provide transportation to residents and adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts, car seat requirements and speed limits at all times.
Perform other related duties as needed

Qualifications

A.A. or equivalent education or experience in a human service field;
Full professional proficiency in Spanish;
One year of counseling and direct service experience;
Prior experience working with survivors of violence and/or those who have perpetrated violence in an intimate partner relationship preferred;
Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on multiple communities;
Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
Excellent verbal, written, and organizational skills;
Ability to resolve conflict in appropriate ways; and
Access to reliable transportation and valid driver’s license required. Must be able to be covered by the agency’s insurance policy.
Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

How to Apply

TO APPLY: Apply online at https://www.ywworks.org/employment/