Job Details

The Participant Advocate (PA) is responsible for providing operational support and oversight at homeless shelter locations during assigned shifts, which may include day, swing, or graveyard hours, as well as at the Homeless Services Center (HSC) and the Palms Inn site. The PA works with vulnerable populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use, behavioral health challenges, and trauma histories. They provide daily living support and services aligned with participants' needs, ensuring all interactions are housing-focused, trauma-informed, and aimed at fostering resilience. The PA is committed to harm reduction principles and strengths-based trauma-informed programming.

Essential Functions

Service Center & Shelter Operations

• Support service center operations to promote an environment of health, safety, respect, and dignity.
• Maintain a safe environment for service provision and communal interaction.
• Perform cleaning and sanitation duties, including handling biohazards occasionally.
• Conduct regular site and safety inspections.
• Monitor overall site and participant health and safety.
• Assist clients with needs, providing guidance and direction as necessary.
• Support food and clothing distribution efforts.
• Assist with opening and closing procedures when required.

Client Engagement and Advocacy

• Implement a housing-first approach with all clients/participants.
• Engage with compassion and empathy.
• Use a trauma-informed approach in client interactions.
• Respect client dignity, avoiding judgment.
• Maintain professional boundaries with clients and staff.
• Model behaviors that support healthy living.
• Respond to participant requests, explain program expectations, and facilitate referrals for housing.
• Apply harm reduction and motivational interviewing strategies.
• Assist in conflict resolution, promoting positive problem-solving, respectful communication, and self-restraint; recognize when to disengage or seek assistance.

Documentation and Data Entry

• Assist with screening and enrolling new participants, completing required forms.
• Review participants' case histories, service plans, and documentation regularly.
• Maintain accurate documentation and communicate effectively with team members.
• Participate in data tracking efforts, including HMIS and DataLink data entry.
• Complete intake and exit paperwork accurately and promptly, inputting data into HMIS.

Resource Knowledge

• Maintain knowledge of agency and community resources.
• Build relationships with partner agency staff for communication and referrals.
• Attend staff meetings and training sessions.

Learning and Development

• Complete required certifications and trainings.
• Demonstrate a commitment to professional growth.

Other Responsibilities

• Assist in food preparation for client meals if needed.
• Collaborate with the Diocese of Santa Rosa and local parishes as appropriate.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Note: Catholic Charities considers this position a mandated reporter of child and elder abuse.

Agency Culture

All employees should embody the following commitments:

• Alignment with the agency's mission, vision, and values.
• Pursuit of excellence and quality improvement.
• Focus on outcomes and measurable results.
• Innovation and openness to new possibilities.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent; 1-2 years' experience as a personal caregiver or similar role preferred.
• CPR and First Aid certification within six months of hire or transfer.
• Understanding of homelessness causes, social services, and community resources; knowledge of Housing First principles preferred.
• Computer skills, including Microsoft 365.
• Strong communication, organization, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, cooperative attitude, and ability to work well with clients and staff.
• Ability to work under pressure with a positive, solution-oriented approach.
• Valid driver's license, insurance, clean driving record, and willingness to travel between sites.
• Pass DOJ background clearance before employment begins.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred but not required.

Physical Requirements

Must meet physical demands such as sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting up to 20 pounds, and other visual and physical capabilities necessary for the role. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Work Environment

Work involves handling noise levels from average to above average, frequent calls, and clients in distress. Accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Santa Rosa is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and inclusion, and participates in E-Verify for employment eligibility verification.