ERIE UNITED METHODIST ALLIANCE, INC.
JOB DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE:      Client Advocate

BASIC JOB FUNCTION:       Maintain a supportive, safe environment for the clients in shelter by supervising and interacting with residents and assuring the schedule, policies, and client goals are carried out. 

REPORTS TO:            Program Director

WORK HOURS:         Part-time or Full-time

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintain/encourage positive attitude and interaction among staff and residents
• Reinforce case management goals of all EUMA shelter residents
• Complete needed work to accomplish room turnover as quickly and efficiently as possible
• Responsible for the safety and security of residents, staff and volunteers during shift
• Present a welcoming, helpful response to those seeking assistance or residency
• Conduct client intakes at direction of Program Director
• Ensure rules of the shelter are maintained
• Ensure all facility entrances are secured and residents in shelter by curfew
• Ensure that shelter building and grounds are maintained in a clean, orderly, safe condition
• Issue supplies to residents when needed and maintain appropriate records
• Conduct tours when necessary and receive and record donations
• Perform all daily record keeping using appropriate form, computer program, etc.
• Coordinate and interact with outside agencies meeting with residents during shift
• Maintain ongoing awareness of house rules and needs of residents through regular review and entries to log, other communications and staff meetings
• Maintain awareness of crisis intervention techniques and be prepared to handle appropriately
• Conduct house meetings and fire drills with residents when necessary
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding all residents/clients, staff information, records, and EUMA organizational issues
• Attend Alliance meetings, in-services and/or trainings as required
• Perform other duties as assigned by Executive Director and/or Program Director and/or Shelter Supervisor
• Secure, safeguard, and protect EUMA property, equipment, and supplies
• Advocate for the homeless at every opportunity in day-to-day performance of job duties

           
QUALIFICATIONS:  

• Commitment to the Erie United Methodist Alliance mission and core values
• Knowledge of community resources
• Must have or be able to obtain Acts 33/34 clearances

SKILLS NEEDED:     

• Good inter-personal skills
• Computer knowledge and skill desirable
• Maturity, good judgment, flexibility and a positive attitude
• Ability to multi-task and shift gears quickly, good organizational skills
• Ability to respond effectively to crisis situations
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and written
• Sensitivity to poverty issues and cultural differences
• Ability to work comfortably with people of diverse backgrounds and unusual lifestyles in a non-judgmental manner
• Ability to interact professionally with staff, clients and other members of community
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality in dealing with clients
• Initiative, ability to work independently under general supervision, and highly developed sense of responsibility

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                                Staff signature                                                                          Date

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                                Program Director signature                                                      Date

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