Shelter Family Advocate, 2nd Shift [ASP106]
Waukegan, IL Emergency Shelter Services
Job Type
Full-time
Description

For over 46 years, A Safe Place has been a beacon of hope in Lake County, empowering survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking to rebuild their lives. Join our mission to provide safety, foster independence, and create brighter futures. 


Your Role: Shelter Family Advocate

  

As a Shelter Family Advocate, you will play a vital role in the Emergency Shelter Program, providing primary support for its daily operations and the needs of survivors. Reporting to the Director of Shelter Services, you will collaborate closely with all programs to ensure a compassionate and secure environment where healing begins. Your advocacy and support will empower survivors to find safety, regain independence, and rebuild their lives.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop safety plans and manage cases for comprehensive client support.
  • Provide crisis counseling, advocacy, and connect clients with community resources.
  • Assist with legal referrals, DHS benefits, and education on domestic violence laws.
  • Refer clients to appropriate community resources and facilitate access to those resources.
  • Manage shelter operations, engage in community building, and handle donations.
  • Conduct client evaluations and maintain accurate records.
  • Mentor volunteers, interns, build local agency relationships, and provide post-shelter support.
  • Travel locally to deliver services.
  • Commit to supporting survivors and fostering a violence-free society.
  • Engage clients authentically while maintaining clear boundaries.
  • Demonstrate cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds
  • Align practices with professional ethics, such as the NASW Code of Ethics.
  • Work effectively as part of the team; collaborating effectively across the organization.
  • Actively participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and team activities.
  • Perform other organizational and program-related duties as assigned.
  • Complete IM+CANS certification, 40-hour Domestic Violence, and other required training.
Requirements

 What You’ll Bring:

  • Bachelor’s degree in social work, counseling, or a related field.
  • Bilingual Spanish fluency is required.
  • Experience in crisis intervention, case management, and advocacy.
  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.
  • Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds.
  • Passion for empowering clients and advancing A Safe Place’s mission.
  • Proficiency in managing and completing various tasks efficiently and accurately.
  • Capacity to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
  • Familiarity with electronic medical records is a plus.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and computer systems.
  • Reliable vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and active auto insurance are required.

What You’ll Experience:

  • Schedule: Tuesday through Saturday, 3:00 PM–11:00 PM.
  • Work Environment: Professional office settings and secure, confidential shelters.
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 20 pounds and navigate stairs.
  • Service Commitment: 70% direct service target (60% for supervisory roles).
  • Team Engagement: Active participation in 70% of staff meetings.
  • Community Involvement: Opportunities for outreach activities as needed.
  • Travel: Local travel required for outreach, training, and service delivery.
  • Transportation: Reliable vehicle, valid driver’s license, and active auto insurance required.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Hourly Rate: $20–$25 per hour; paid bi-weekly (26 pay periods).
  • Full-Time Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending account (FSA); 401(k); paid time off; Employee Assistance Program.
  • Commitment to Inclusion:
    A Safe Place is an equal opportunity employer, celebrating diversity and providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.


Make a Difference. Apply Today.
Be the voice of hope and a source of strength for survivors. Join A Safe Place and help transform lives every day.

Salary Description
$20 - $25 hourly