Simpson Housing Services Job Description

Position: On-call shelter advocate
Salary: $12 an hour

Summary:  The on-call shelter advocate may work up to 1,000 hours in a year to meet the coverage needs of the shelter. The shelter provides a hospitable, safe, secure, clean, supportive, and affirming environment for single adult men and women in need of overnight shelter. The on-call shelter advocate provides advocacy, support, direction, resources and referrals to shelter guests, as needed.

This position requires a high-level of flexibility and ability to work on short notice.

Major Responsibilities/Activities:

Facilitate positive on-site shelter operations

• Know, communicate, and uphold shelter rules.
• Read shelter notes and request updates from both staff and volunteers.
• Coordinate paperwork (as appropriate), greet and screen guests at the opening of the shelter.
• Greet, update, and supervise interns, volunteers and meal groups.
• Provide awake presence overnight when working.
• Provide a hospitable environment for guests and volunteers.
• Assist with shelter maintenance as needed including: clean bedding, storage, and unused lockers, put away donations, clean refrigerator.
• Be available for questions and information for all shelter guests.
• Be aware of needed supplies and retrieve from the appropriate location.
• Complete daily duties of shelter staff as required. 

Provide quality coordination of services

• Communicate and coordinate services with all team members. Attend team meetings as available.
• Attendance and timeliness for scheduled shifts and other team meetings.
• Ability to assist and support guests with crisis and conflict management issues.
• Communicate regularly with supervisor.
• Be informed of issues of homelessness and the shelter system.
• Other duties as assigned.

Complete accurate and thorough documentation and record keeping in a timely manner

• Update statistics on computer, if trained to do so.
• Log clear and concise case notes of daily events.
• Maintain accurate records including employee time sheets.

Provide positive representation of Simpson through public relations and networking

• Interpret and promote the program to constituents, speak to community organizations or church groups.
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with staff, volunteers, participants and other stakeholders.
• Network with providers of similar services.
• Participate in professional meetings, workshops, and staff meetings.
• Professional behavior, dress, and conduct are expected in all aspects of work with guests as well as contact with the volunteers and public.

Demonstrate essential knowledge, abilities and skills

• Ability to work very well independently, with excellent skills in teamwork and collaboration.
• Ability to be flexible and manage time.
• Ability to communicate effectively, positively and professionally with participants, providers and others.
• Ability to work with individuals from very diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to perform non-traditional tasks while meeting participant needs.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Adhere to a standard framework of boundaries in all interactions with guests, volunteers, staff and public. 

Scope of Position:

This position works on-site at our Overnight Emergency shelter. The shelter serves 66 single men and women each night. This is a position that includes nights, weekends, and overnight hours.

Participant populations may include those with chemical abuse issues, criminal histories (drug charges, prostitution, fraud, etc.), and/or mental health issues.

Position Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Adequate written and verbal communication skills
• Patience, flexibility, ability to listen, assertiveness and compassion
• Ability to be decisive and effective under pressure
• Overnight shifts required.
• Ability to maintain composure in crisis situations
• Knowledge or experience with low-income and homeless populations is preferred.
• This position requires a high-level of flexibility and ability to work on short notice.

How to apply
Forward your resume and cover letter to:

Brian K. Bozeman
Shelter Manager
Simpson Housing Services
2100 Pillsbury Ave South
Minneapolis, MN 55404

Fax: 612.879.0041

No phone calls or emails please.

Simpson Housing Services is a community-based non-profit committed to providing shelter, affordable housing, and support services to men, women and children experiencing homelessness. The Simpson staff is known for building relationships that are based on mutual respect and understanding. We are committed to building a diverse workforce.

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