Job Description

Job Location Shelter, Ansonia, CT - Ansonia, CT Position Type Full Time Education Level High School Travel Percentage Up to 25% Job Shift Afternoon/evening Job Category Nonprofit - Social Services

Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate

Are you passionate about helping survivors of domestic violence find safety, support, and hope? BHcare is seeking a caring and dedicated Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate to provide direct support to adults and children in our safe house. This role is essential in creating a safe environment while empowering clients to heal, rebuild, and thrive.

This is a full-time position, 37.5 hours per week. The schedule is Monday-Friday 3pm-11pm.

What You’ll Do:

• Welcome new residents and their children, complete intakes, and provide orientation to the shelter.

• Offer crisis intervention, safety planning, and emotional support to survivors and their families.

• Provide individual support and referrals to community resources such as healthcare, education, and social services.

• Facilitate transportation for clients to medical appointments, school, shopping, and activities.

• Collaborate with community partners, including law enforcement, hospitals, and other providers, to ensure client needs are met.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive shelter environment.

• Assist clients with developing and following through on service plans to achieve safety and independence.

• Cover the 24/7 hotline and respond to crisis calls with compassion and professionalism.

• Ensure all documentation is completed promptly and accurately.

What We’re Looking For:

• Compassionate, reliable, and committed to supporting survivors of domestic violence.

• Strong communication and crisis intervention skills.

• Ability to remain calm, empathetic, and professional in challenging situations.

• Comfortable collaborating with both clients and external providers.

• Must remain awake and alert during shifts.

• Valid driver’s license and willingness to use personal vehicle for work-related purposes.

Why Join BHcare?

At BHcare, you’ll be part of a mission-driven team working to break the cycle of domestic violence and build stronger, safer communities. We offer a supportive environment where your work truly changes lives.

Be a voice of hope. Be an advocate for safety. Apply today to join BHcare as a Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred. In lieu of Bachelor’s degree: Associates degree or college coursework equivalent (2 years) and 2 years work experience in human services; OR high school diploma and minimum of 4 years of experience in human services.
• Substitution of appropriate college training is allowed but subject to funder’s approval,
• Two years Advocacy and/or direct service experience working with survivors of domestic violence in a community-based setting preferred.
• Bi-lingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain the certified domestic violence counselor per CGS 52-146k before providing direct service to clients, followed with six-hour recertification yearly.
• Strong Written Communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse range of clients.
• Crisis intervention and counseling skills preferred.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft 365. Must be able to navigate through electronic health records system (EHR).
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license. Must maintain an acceptable driving record and be insurable at a reasonable rate under the Organization’s auto insurance plan.

PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE /CERTIFICATIONS:

• Must be able to obtain and maintain First Aid/CPR and AED certification