Shelter Advocate

Primary Function: As a member of Safe Harbor’s Shelter Team, the Shelter Advocate provides trauma-informed, survivor-centered advocacy, support, resource coordination, and education to survivors of domestic abuse residing in Safe Harbor’s shelter program. The Shelter Advocate supports survivors in identifying goals, strengthening safety, navigating resources, and building pathways toward stability and independence. The Shelter Advocate works collaboratively with survivors, families, internal programs, community partners, and service providers to address individual and family needs while contributing to a safe, respectful, inclusive, and supportive shelter environment. Advocacy is grounded in survivor choice, dignity, autonomy, and self-determination.

Models behaviors and engagement that consistently reflect and advance Safe Harbor’s vision, mission, guiding principles, policies, and procedures.

 This is a full time, hourly, nonexempt position eligible for full benefits.

 Reports To: Shelter Advocacy Manager

Key Responsibilities

• Complete initial intake and assessment to identify program appropriateness, immediate needs, safety concerns, and appropriate service pathways.
• Develop, implement, monitor, and update individualized safety plans with survivors.
• Provide trauma-informed advocacy, crisis intervention, education, referrals, and ongoing support while respecting survivor choice and self-determination.
• Assist survivors in accessing resources related to housing, employment, healthcare, legal services, transportation, financial assistance, childcare, education, and other basic needs.
• Support survivors with children by connecting families to parenting, childcare, education, and other family-focused resources; assist with school enrollment and navigating challenges that may arise while residing in the program.
• Coordinate move-outs, transportation, and transition planning as needed.
• Facilitate individual and group discussions focused on trauma, healthy relationships, empowerment, strength-building, life skills, and community resources.
• Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with community agencies, service providers, and resources frequently accessed by survivors.
• Maintain an accurate and current community resource guide and assist survivors in navigating referrals and establishing connections to services.
• Maintain confidentiality and complete timely, accurate documentation, including client records, progress notes, database entries, advocacy contacts, referrals, and required program data and reports.
• Contribute to the effective day-to-day functioning of the shelter by supporting a safe, respectful, and trauma-informed environment.
• Respond to survivor concerns and challenges in a calm, compassionate, and trauma-informed manner.
• Participate in staff, supervisory, community, and state meetings as assigned and represent Safe Harbor professionally in the community.
• Assist with the orientation and training of volunteers supporting Safe Harbor’s mission and shelter program.
• Support agency policies, initiatives, events, and organizational priorities.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Shelter Advocacy or Program Manager.

Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in human services, social work, psychology, or a related field preferred; an associate degree or relevant experience will be considered.
• One year of relevant advocacy, human services, crisis intervention, or related experience preferred.
• Knowledge of the dynamics of domestic abuse and its impact on individuals and families preferred.
• Strong understanding of trauma-informed and survivor-centered approaches.
• Demonstrated ability to work with diverse individuals in an empathetic, respectful, and nonjudgmental manner.
• Demonstrated organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities in a crisis-oriented environment.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, take initiative, navigate complex situations, and maintain appropriate professional boundaries.
• Strong commitment to teamwork, collaboration, and shared responsibility.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to facilitate groups and engage survivors in meaningful, strength-based discussions; public speaking experience preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including limited evenings, based on program needs.
• Valid South Carolina Driver’s License.

Physical Requirements

• Be able to perform the essential duties of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Be able to remain stationary for extended periods of time while also having the ability to move throughout the shelter environment as required by the position.
• Frequently operate traditional office technology, computer systems, and communication equipment.
• Occasionally lift or carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Be able to respond appropriately to emergency or crisis situations and navigate the physical environment of the shelter as needed.