Lead Housing Advocate

The Salvation Army Mission

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church.  Its message is based on the Bible.  Its ministry is motivated by the love of God.  Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED and three years of experience in social services with increasing responsibilities, i.e., shift/staff oversight.
• Experience working with the public and interfacing with all levels of management and staff.
• Must have a good understanding of the delivery of Social Services and community services.
• Ability to accept supervision and work well with colleagues.
• Work well with diverse clients and respect confidentiality; work within ethical and legal parameters.
• Computer literate; ability to use Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid Driver's License and must meet the MVR driver’s qualifications, preferred.
• Must pass The Salvation Army background checks.
• Must be able to successfully complete CPR/First Aid and Crisis Intervention.
• Must be willing to support the philosophy, goals, objectives, and mission of The Salvation Army.
• Safe From Harm will apply upon commencement of employment and Safe From Harm training must be satisfactorily completed within the first thirty (30) days of employment

Position Summary

The Lead Housing Advocate is responsible for assisting with staff and program supervision and acts as shift supervisor in the absence of other management. The Advocate is responsible for providing a supportive environment while meeting the needs of clients.  The Advocate provides the highest level of care while ensuring the health and safety of clients. This is a regular full-time position, frequently scheduled for 2^nd shift.  Hours will be between 10-6:30pm.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

This job description is not all inclusive.  It is intended to identify the essential duties of the position.  Other duties, responsibilities and tasks may be assigned by supervisor.

• Maintain positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in a manner that fosters good relationships with co-workers and supervisors. This would include but not be limited to such actions: resolution of conflicts in a professional manner; courteous treatment of staff, visitors and clients; respect of others’ property and person, professional and appropriate communication to and about co-workers, supervisors, and subordinates.
• Support the Mission of The Salvation Army by treating every client, donor, and colleague with respect and dignity, and without discrimination of any kind.
• Engage all community members in a way that brings them to the Corps for programming, events, and Pathway of Hope.

Staff/Program Coordination

• Act as on-site supervisor in absence of other management, ensure policies and procedures are followed.
• Assist in guiding, mentoring, and training the advocate team.

Client Care

• Develop and maintain a positive rapport with clients.
• Support clients in following rules and expectations, providing accountability, as needed.
• Monitor clients and program areas, including during meal times and by performing routine rounds.
• Provide clients with information and resources, including available community resources.
• Orient clients to the program and complete the intake process and paperwork.
• Safely recognize and respond to crises, verbally deescalating and requesting Security’s assistance.
• Competently follow the Harbor Light Safety and Security Management Plan.

Additional Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate, professional, timely, and non-judgmental verbal and written communication.
• Complete all paperwork in a timely manner, e.g., logs, incident reports, statistics, etc.
• Perform general cleaning of program spaces, ensure laundry goes to Housekeeping; inventory unit linens and supplies; requisition items as needed.
• Ensure areas contaminated with body fluids are cleaned and disinfected in a safe and timely manner.

 The Salvation Army Northern Division