November 19, 2024

Grand Forks Housing Authority

Grand Forks

FULL TIME & PART TIME

Shelter Support Advocate Part time 3rd Shift e/o weekend

Shelter Support Advocate

Position specifications are intended to present a description list of the range of duties performed by employees in the position. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

Welcome to the Grand Forks Housing Authority!
Since 1967 the Grand Forks Housing Authority has worked to provide safe, affordable housing for all residents of Grand Forks County. Today we help house over 2,000 families, provide self-sufficiency programs for the community and educate youth in the safe, healthy environment of our after school programming. Our VISION is simple: Through the provision of safe, affordable housing we look forward to not only improving the lives of our clients, but keeping the future bright for our entire community.

DEFINITION

Under the direct supervision of the Client Services Director and the Program Coordinator of SHELTER, the person(s) performing in this position are responsible for supporting the overall mission of the Grand Forks Housing Authority and for supporting guests of Shelter. GFHA considers every position a vital and valued part of our team. Therefore, it is essential that all employees at GFHA Shelter subscribe to our mission, vision and values. Shelter Staff provides and enhances safe emergency shelter and drop-in services. The Shelter staff meets the immediate needs of homeless persons that cannot access other shelter options in the community as well. As a direct contact of the guests and clients, the shelter staff provides a safe and respectful environment while conducting guest intakes, assisting guests with housing, helping make referrals to other agencies and services. This position involves interacting with guests and service providers to monitor the activities of the building and provide interventions and support, as needed. This position will support the Client Services Division in carrying out programing goals related to “Housing First” and “Harm Reduction” philosophies.

SUPERVISION

Harm Reduction Advocates will receive supervision from the Client Services Director and (more directly) the Program Coordinator of the Shelter.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS—Essential responsibilities and duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

Essential Functions:

Have a working knowledge of “Housing First” and “Harm Reduction” philosophies and ability to apply to specific duties;
Compile HMIS (Homeless Management Information System) data entry, prepare and maintain daily logs, records, activity and incident report documentation;
Act as liaison with community service partners, law enforcement, advocates, etc.
Maintain knowledge and skill of computer software;
Exhibit interpersonal skills with guests and coworkers;
Support guests to understand their rights and responsibilities at Shelter;
Provide advocacy supports for guests;
Communicates courteously and professionally and maintains working relationships with others in carrying out job functions;
Maintains a safe and supervised shelter; facilitates the efficient and effective operation of the shelter on a day-to-day basis.
Coordinates shelter guest and check-in process including bed assignments and assesses for safety;
Completes the admission/intake process with new shelter guests and ensures all needed information has been obtained;
Provides shelter guests with essentials such as food, fluids, toiletries, etc.
Assures access to emergency services for guests as necessary;
Completes and maintains necessary records, maintaining confidentiality and complying with HIPAA and CFR 42 regulations regarding client confidentiality.
Utilizes the employee communication log to summarize relevant events of each shift;
Reads the employee communication log before beginning shift duties;
Communicates, complies with, and enforces all shelter rules, policies, and procedures;
Focus on building relationships with shelter guests, meeting basic needs, identifying additional needs based on their current situation, being available to answer questions, and assisting with problem solving, while demonstrating empathy and acceptance;
Effectively manages crisis, conflict situations, conflict resolution and de-escalating situations before they arise w/ de-escalations and motivational interviewing skills;
Completes required training and developmental activities;
Continuously develops understanding and knowledge of area resources in order to refer and connect guests to services;
Assists with maintaining facility upkeep and cleanliness
Performs other duties and activities as assigned

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Current Knowledge, Skills and Abilities, or the ability to quickly attain through onsite training requirements:

Working knowledge of the general nature of policies, procedures, and methods related to the care and well-being of people experiencing homelessness who may struggle with mental illness and/or chemical dependency.
Knowledge and/or skills required will generally be gained through training, both formal or informal, and/or related experience
High degree of interpersonal skill required to be able to communicate and provide unbiased support to guests
Good verbal and written communication skills and computer literacy skills

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING GUIDELINES

Preference is given to applicants with experience and/or training in working with persons who have mental illness and/or chemical dependency and/or have experienced homelessness. This position requires a valid driver’s license and dependable transportation as well as successful completion of all background checks including criminal records.

Training/Education:

Equivalent to a high school degree or GED is required. Two years of experience providing direct client services or an Associate degree in the human services field preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Environmental and Physical Conditions:

Office and field environment; work with computers; Essential and marginal functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for mobility throughout the property, working closely with guests and sitting for prolonged periods of time.

Required Hours:

The Shelter requires 24-hour, 7 days a week staffing. Shifts generally run 8:00am-4:30pm, 4:00 pm-12:30 am, and 12 am-8:30 am. Flexibility within shifts, when able;

WAGE BAND FT

Grade 35

Starting Range: $17.50 - 22.50, depending on qualifications