Emergency Shelter Advocate (Overnight)

A Safe Place • Waukegan, IL

1d • $25 • Onsite

About The Position

The Overnight Emergency Shelter Advocate provides crisis intervention, advocacy, and supportive services to survivors of domestic violence and their children residing in the emergency shelter. This role helps ensure a safe, stable, and trauma-informed environment during overnight hours while supporting the shelter’s 24-hour operations.

The advocate responds to crisis hotline calls, assists with shelter intake screenings, documents services, and provides supportive engagement with residents. Overnight staff also monitor facility safety, conduct routine walk-throughs, and respond to urgent needs that may arise during the shift.

This position plays a critical role in maintaining the safety, dignity, and well-being of survivors while helping residents access resources that support long-term stability and independence.

This position requires maintaining a calm and professional presence while working independently during overnight hours in a residential shelter environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a human services field or equivalent experience in crisis advocacy, social services, or survivor support.
• Bilingual English/Spanish fluency required, with the ability to communicate effectively with survivors in both languages
• Mental Health Professional (MHP) eligibility under Illinois Medicaid guidelines is strongly preferred.
• Ability to lift to 20 pounds and navigate stairs within the shelter facility
• Ability to sit for extended periods while completing documentation and operating office equipment
• Reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license, and active auto insurance
• Strong trauma-informed communication and conflict resolution skills.
• Cultural humility and the ability to support survivors from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA and BIPOC communities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Effective time management, organizational, and prioritization skills.
• Strong computer skills with the ability to complete accurate and timely documentation.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications such as Word and Excel.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with the dynamics of domestic violence and the challenges survivors face.
• Experience providing crisis response, advocacy, or shelter-based services.
• Experience with housing placement, case management, or survivor advocacy services.
• Familiarity with electronic records or case management systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Respond to crisis hotline calls, providing immediate crisis intervention, safety planning, and resource referrals.
• Provide trauma-informed advocacy and support to survivors residing in emergency shelter, including adults and children.
• Conduct intake screenings and eligibility assessments for individuals seeking emergency shelter services.
• Engage with shelter residents in shared spaces, offering guidance, education, and supportive advocacy.
• Maintain timely, accurate, and confidential client documentation in accordance with agency, funder, and regulatory requirements.
• Complete case notes, intake documentation, and required reporting within established timelines.
• Conduct routine facility walk-throughs to ensure safety, security, and adherence to shelter protocols.
• Monitor shelter access points and respond to safety concerns during overnight hours.
• Provide residents with information regarding domestic violence dynamics, safety planning, Orders of Protection, and available community resources.
• Connect survivors to internal programs and external service providers as appropriate.
• Participate in required trainings, team meetings, and program communications.
• Support a respectful, trauma-informed, and collaborative shelter environment.

Benefits

• Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance; a Flexible Spending Account (FSA); a 401(k) retirement plan; generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays; and access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees