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. The role involves providing daily living support and services aligned with participants' housing-related and individual 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

1. Support service center operations to promote an environment of health, safety, respect, and dignity.
2. Maintain a safe environment conducive to successful service provision and communal interaction.
3. Perform cleaning and sanitation duties as required, including occasional biohazard work.
4. Conduct regular site and safety walks.
5. Monitor overall site and participant health and safety.
6. Assist clients with needs, providing guidance and direction as necessary.
7. Assist with food and clothing distribution.
8. Support opening and closing procedures when needed.

Client Engagement and Demonstrated Advocacy

1. Implement a housing first approach with all clients/participants.
2. Show compassion and empathy during client interactions.
3. Serve clients using a trauma-informed approach.
4. Respect client dignity without judgment.
5. Maintain professional boundaries with clients and staff.
6. Model behaviors that support healthy living.
7. Respond to participant requests, explain program expectations, and share information and referrals for housing assistance.
8. Utilize harm reduction and motivational interviewing strategies.
9. Assist with conflict resolution, promoting respectful communication and problem-solving; discern when to disengage or seek assistance.

Documentation and Data Entry

1. Assist with screening and enrolling participants, completing required forms.
2. Regularly review participant case histories, service plans, and documentation to stay informed about needs.
3. Maintain accurate documentation and communicate effectively with team members.
4. Participate in data tracking efforts, including HMIS and DataLink entries.
5. Complete intake and exit paperwork accurately and timely, inputting data into HMIS.

Resource Knowledge

1. Learn and stay informed about agency and community resources.
2. Build relationships with partner agency staff to facilitate communication and referrals.
3. Attend staff meetings and training sessions.

Learning and Development

1. Complete required certifications for compliance.
2. Participate in mandated and ongoing training.
3. Show enthusiasm for professional growth.

Other Responsibilities

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

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

Agency Culture

All employees should embody the following commitments:

• Adherence to the agency's mission, vision, and values.
• Striving for excellence in all tasks.
• Engagement in performance and quality improvement.
• Focus on outcomes and measurable results.
• Innovative thinking and embracing possibilities.

Qualifications

1. High School diploma or HSE; 1-2 years of work as a personal caregiver or similar experience preferred.
2. CPR and First Aid certification within six months of employment.
3. Understanding of homelessness causes, social services experience, and community resources knowledge; Housing First familiarity preferred.
4. Proficiency with Microsoft 365 Suite.
5. Strong communication, organization, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills.
6. Excellent interpersonal skills; proactive and friendly attitude.
7. Ability to work under pressure positively.
8. Valid driver's license, insurance, clean DMV record, and willingness to travel.
9. Pass DOJ background check before starting.
10. Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred but not required.

Physical Requirements

Must meet physical demands such as sitting, standing, walking, reaching, and lifting up to 20 pounds. Visual acuity and ability to work in a noisy environment are required. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for disabilities.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We participate in E-Verify for employment eligibility verification.