Join Our Team as Shelter Support Staff: Be a Support, Be a Difference
At Volunteers of America, we are dedicated to supporting youth in our community, especially those facing challenging circumstances. Crosswalk Shelter provides a safe and supportive environment for young people ages 13-17 who need care, guidance, and resources to thrive. If you are passionate about helping others, especially youth who have experienced hardship, we invite you to apply for our Shelter Support Staff position.
Position: Shelter Support Staff (Full-Time & Part-Time Opportunities)
Location: Spokane, WA
Pay: $20.00/hour (Days) | $20.50/hour (Overnight)
Shifts: (This is a part-time role focused on overnight and weekend shifts, and flexibility is a requirement.)
- Day (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
- Swing (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- Overnight (9:00 PM – 9:00 AM)
Why We Need You:
At Crosswalk, we meet young people where they are—without judgment and with open arms. Many of our youth have faced homelessness, economic instability, mental health challenges, or trauma. They come to us in need of more than just shelter—they need empathy, support, and someone who will show them they are valued. In your role as Shelter Support Staff, you’ll have the opportunity to be that person, helping these young individuals rebuild their lives and find hope for their future.
What You’ll Do:
- Provide Compassionate Support: Be a constant source of empathy and care, offering respect and understanding to every young person you encounter.
- Meet Youth Where They Are: Engage with youth on their terms, helping them feel heard, respected, and safe.
- Assist with Daily Needs: Help with meal prep, hygiene products, and keep the shelter clean and welcoming.
- Empower Youth: Support young people by connecting them to essential resources and offering emotional encouragement as they navigate their challenges.
- Ensure a Safe Environment: Help create a safe, structured, supportive atmosphere by enforcing shelter guidelines and following proper procedures.
Why You’ll Love Working Here:
- Make a Real Difference: You’ll directly contribute to the stability, healing, and growth of vulnerable youth, guiding them toward a brighter future.
- Flexible Shifts: With part-time and flexible scheduling, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, we can accommodate your availability.
- Training & Growth: Receive FREE CPR/First Aid training, Bloodborne Pathogens, and Food Handling. Plus, opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
- Supportive Team: Work alongside a compassionate team that shares your commitment to empowering youth and supporting one another.
What We’re Looking For:
- Experience & Education: At least one year of experience working with children or youth is preferred. Experience with high-risk youth is a plus. This must be reflected on your application/resume.
- Due to license requirements must be at least 21 years of age
- Ability to pass a WA State DCYF Background Check
- Heartfelt Commitment: A passion for supporting and uplifting young people, especially those who’ve faced trauma or hardship.
- Effective Communication: The ability to connect with youth, caring and respectfully, navigating difficult conversations with empathy.
- Certifications: Eligibility for Agency Affiliated Counselor (AAC) licensing, CPR/First Aid, and a Food Handler’s Permit (to be obtained within 6 months of hire).
- Bonus: Shared lived experience or peer support experience is a plus, but not required.
About Us:
Volunteers of America (VOA) is driven by the mission to uplift everyone we serve—our staff, clients, and community. We provide more than just shelter; we offer empowerment, inclusion, and support to those who need it. At VOA, we believe in a world where homelessness and inequities are things of the past, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
We understand that the perfect candidate might not meet every qualification, and we encourage individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply. We'd love to hear from you if you’re ready to make a real impact.