Department:      Domestic Violence Shelter Services (DVSS) 

Reports to:        Site Director, DVSS 

FLSA Status:      Non-Exempt 

Starting Rate:    $14.00/hour plus shift differential 

Schedule:           Sunday through Thursday_11 pm to 7 am 

URL:                   www.ywworks.org/employment 

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering survivors. The YW provides a safe place for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our programs and services include crisis shelter and transitional housing for survivors and their families, counseling, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, community education, supervised visitation, and vocational training for youth. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus.

Expectations of all Employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and other stakeholders.
• Reflect on and interrupt assumptions, personal and systemic biases, and sources of power when interacting or communicating with colleagues, clients, and external partners.
• Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
• Foster a positive working environment.
• Coordinate efforts across teams, programs, and partner organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.

Position Purpose

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to residents of the YW’s emergency shelter for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. The DSA is an important member of a trauma-informed, multidisciplinary team working to address the whole needs of survivors. Additionally, the 3^rd shift DSA will answer the YW’s 24-hour, bilingual hotline as well as warmline for homeless survivors.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Answer the 24-hour hotline within 3 rings.
• Answer the warmline as needed.
• Conduct shelter screenings and intakes as needed.
• Provide crisis intervention as needed.
• Help residents become acquainted with shelter and other residents upon arrival.
• Provide counseling to resident upon arrival and as needed throughout their stay.
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to:  vacuuming, laundry, shoveling, mopping).
• Ensure residents are following shelter schedule, including wake up times as applicable.
• Model and promote shelter rules and guidelines.
• Assist with children’s groups as needed.
• Regularly engage with residents especially during meals.
• Ensure completion of chores as applicable.
• Complete all required paperwork.
• Maintain client records.
• Ensure parents / guardians supervise children, including at bedtime as applicable.
• Prepare rooms for residents including washing, drying and putting away linen.
• Attend monthly staff meetings.
• Provide transportation to residents and adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts, car seat requirements and speed limits at all times.
• Perform other related duties as needed.

Qualifications

• A.A. or equivalent education or experience in a human service field;
• Full professional proficiency in Spanish;
• One year of counseling and direct service experience;
• Prior experience working with survivors of violence and/or those who have perpetrated violence in an intimate partner relationship preferred;
• Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on multiple communities;
• Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
• Excellent verbal, written, and organizational skills;
• Ability to resolve conflict in appropriate ways; and
• Access to reliable transportation and valid driver’s license required. Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy.
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

EEO STATEMENT

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include select, non-exempt positions covered under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day introductory period.

Reports to:               Director of Community Support Programs 

Schedule:                 Full time, 37.5 hours/weekMonday—Friday, 3pm-11pm 

FLSA Status:            Non-Exempt 

Starting Rate:          $16.00/hour 

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering survivors. The YW provides a safe place for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our programs and services include crisis shelter and transitional housing for survivors and their families, counseling, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, community education, supervised visitation, and vocational training for youth. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus.

Expectations of all employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and other stakeholders.
• Reflect on and interrupt assumptions, personal and systemic biases, and sources of power when interacting or communicating with colleagues, clients, and external partners.
• Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
• Foster a positive working environment.
• Coordinate efforts across teams, programs, and partner organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.

Position Purpose

The Llamanos Hotline Advocate provides support, advocacy and crisis response on our 24-hour hotline for survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking, significant others, and professionals. Hotline Workers are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, and outside connections to best serve those calling our hotline. 

Essential Responsibilities

• Provide trauma-informed, strengths-based telephone interventions that incorporate safety planning and assessment of immediate needs.
• Answer 24-hour Llamanos Hotline Line within the first 3 rings.
• Ensure bed-update system receives a login and updates/changes within the 1^st hour of each shift and again as space changes.
• Conducts shelter and community-based counseling intakes.
• Complete hotline logs, case notes, incident reports, logs, and service tracking logs prior to the end of shift.
• Complete overnight checklists.
• Maintain client records.
• Attend supervision, trainings, and staff meetings.
• Assist with staffing shelter during crisis situations or in times where support is needed.
• Perform other related duties as requested.

• Provide back-up support to the YW’s new Homelessness Helpline by responding to calls, helping the caller to create a safety plan, and making referrals to the Outreach Worker or Case Manager.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree plus 1 - 3 years of experience in human services;
• Spanish language proficiency required;
• Excellent verbal, written, and organizational skills, including computer skills;
• Ability to resolve conflict in appropriate ways;
• Prior experience working with survivors of violence and/or those who have perpetrated violence in an intimate partner relationship preferred;
• Experience and knowledge of child development and impact of domestic violence on children preferred;
• Experience with survivors of gender-based violence and exploitation;
• Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on communities;
• Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
• Ability to represent agency from a management perspective in an active union environment;
• Must have knowledge of/contacts with community agencies;
• Experience with and knowledge of accessing resources within the community;
• Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy; and
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

EEO STATEMENT

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include select, non-exempt positions covered under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.  

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.

Department:           Domestic Violence Shelter Services (DVSS)                 

Reports to:             Assistant Program Director   

Schedule:               Full time, 37.5 hours/week; Monday—Friday, 10am – 6pm 

FLSA Status:          Non-Exempt 

Starting Rate:       $16.00/hour

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering survivors. The YW provides a safe place for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our programs and services include crisis shelter and transitional housing for survivors and their families, counseling, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, community education, supervised visitation, and vocational training for youth. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus.

Expectations of all employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and others.
• Perform quality work within program guidelines and deadlines.
• Work effectively as a team contributor and foster a positive working environment.
• Work independently while understanding the need for communication and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.

Position Purpose

Reporting to the Director of Adult Residential Services, the DVSS Child Support Specialist is responsible for providing case management services to pregnant and/or parenting families to support them in achieving goals in areas such as parenting skills, child development, educational or career goals, health, social connections, and meeting basic needs. The Child Support Specialist will also conduct community outreach to collaborate with other organizations and generate referrals to the program, and provide group and/or individual services in shelter.

Essential Responsibilities

• Coordinate referrals from DTA/DHCD and arrange transportation to the shelter.
• Orient families to shelter operations by reviewing the placement agreement, policies, and other expectations within 24 hours of arrival.
• Complete safety plans with shelter guests within 3 days of arrival.
• Collaborate with Support Specialist to create re-housing plans within 2 weeks for families;
• Provide outreach, case management and assist them in parenting, relationship skills, and life management;
• Maintain a caseload of 15-20 participants;
• Conduct initial and periodic assessments of each family to determine the appropriate level of services;
• Complete and collect documentation and data required by funder, including but not limited to developmental screening, literacy screening, and mental health/substance abuse screening;
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation for each family served, including paper and electronic records;
• Conduct parenting groups and individual services based on client needs;
• Work with the families, building positive relationships and supporting their parenting roles;
• Conduct community outreach to collaborate with other organizations and generate referrals to the program;
• Meet with shelter guests on a weekly basis to gauge progress in support of shelter guests’ child-identified goals and re-housing plans;
• Assist with school / daycare enrollment for children in shelter;
• Provide child care as needed;
• Provide transportation to shelter guests and adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts, car seat requirements and speed limits at all times;
• Provide follow-up services to families on caseload who exit shelter and remain in local community;
• Ensure that children’s files are complete and properly maintained;
• Complete assessments according to deadlines specified in child files;
• Ensure data is entered into the data management system in a timely fashion;
• Maintain the facility and property (including but not limited to vacuuming, laundry, loading/unloading groceries, shoveling, raking, mopping);
• Attend weekly case review and monthly staff meetings;
• Perform other related duties as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in early childhood development or related fields such as social work, human services or community health, or equivalent professional experience;
• Knowledge of child development and an understanding and appreciation of the family’s social, economic and cultural background.
• Residential experience and experience with adolescents and/or young parents and children preferred;
• Bi-lingual (Spanish/English) language proficiency required;
• Strong teamwork, organizational and communication skills;
• Knowledge of/contacts with community agencies;
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
• Access to reliable transportation and valid driver’s license required. Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy.

EEO STATEMENT

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include select, non-exempt positions covered under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.  

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.

Department:                      Holyoke Teen Parent Program

Reports to:                        Program Director

Schedule:                          Monday - Friday, 4pm-12am (FT)

FLSA Status:                      Non-Exempt

Starting Rate:                    $14.00/hour

URL:                                 www.ywworks.org/employment

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering survivors. We provide a safe place for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our programs and services include crisis shelter and transitional housing for survivors and their families, counseling, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, community education, supervised visitation, HIV education and testing, and vocational training. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus.

Expectations of all employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and other stakeholders.
• Reflect on and interrupt assumptions, personal and systemic biases, and sources of power when interacting or communicating with colleagues, clients, and external partners.
• Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
• Foster a positive working environment.
• Coordinate efforts across teams, programs, and partner organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.
• Maintain full compliance with EEC annual training hour requirements; full-time staff are required to complete a minimum 24 hours of training, part-time and per diem are required to complete a minimum 12 hours of training.
• Maintain full EEC compliance with Background Record Check processes, including renewal of the BRC every three years. 

Position Purpose

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations. 

Essential Responsibilities

• Nurture and support a milieu approach that is participant-guided, family-driven, strengths-based, trauma-informed and embraces a framework of empowerment and encouragement, engaging with 100% of individuals and families that are on-site each shift.
• Encourage and support the development of life skills, positive parenting and improved parent-child interaction- 1:1 or group format to include recreational, educational, cultural or those that promote family engagement.
• Follow and encourage the programs daily schedule and facilitate resident participation and community responsibilities, taking into account individualized plans for each participant.
• Ongoing individual resident support with 85% of time on shift in direct service role providing face to face contact and interaction.
• Ensure program procedures, rules, regulations and policies are followed to ensure a safe and supportive living environment including completion of 100% of all required safety sweeps (minimum of four times) each shift to ensure premises including alarms, doors, windows, appliances and bedrooms are all safe.
• To facilitate integration into the program, provide orientation and emotional support to participants upon arrival and complete intake paperwork with 100% of participants within 24 hours of arrival.
• To ensure participants are properly welcomed to the program, prepares rooms for new families within 1-2 shifts from previous exit.
• Required documentation and daily program communication including case notes, resident files and communication logs, completing 100% of all documentation prior to the end of shift.
• Perform regular job duties to be observed by new staff during the job shadowing portion of program orientation.
• Engage with residents during meal times and ensure that participants clean up the dining area prior to leaving as well as kitchen prior to cooking.
• Assist with child care as needed to support service planning goal activities completion.
• Conducts safety checks on residents and children as needed and completes 100% of all required safety checks.
• Attend scheduled staff meetings, supervisions, and trainings.
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to: vacuuming, laundry, loading/unloading groceries, shoveling, raking, mopping, preparation of bedrooms) including ensuring 100% of chores were completed properly before signing off on the chore list.
• Provide transportation to residents and adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts, car seat requirements and speed limits at all times to include ratio of 1:5.
• Perform other related duties as needed.  

Qualifications

• A.A. or equivalent education or experience in a human service field;
• One year of counseling and direct service experience;
• Familiarity with issues of domestic violence;
• Experience with survivors of gender-based violence and exploitation;
• Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on multiple communities;
• Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
• Ability to represent agency from a management perspective in an active union environment;
• Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy; and
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs. 

EEO STATEMENT

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include select, non-exempt positions covered under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.  

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.

Reports to:          Site Director 

Schedule:            Full time, 37.5 hours/week ; Monday—Friday, 3pm-11pm 

FLSA Status:       Non-Exempt 

Starting Rate:     $14.00/hour 

URL:                     www.ywworks.org/employment

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering survivors. We provide a safe place for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our programs and services include crisis shelter and transitional housing for survivors and their families, counseling, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, community education, supervised visitation, HIV education and testing, and vocational training. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus.

Expectations of all employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and other stakeholders.
• Reflect on and interrupt assumptions, personal and systemic biases, and sources of power when interacting or communicating with colleagues, clients, and external partners.
• Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
• Foster a positive working environment.
• Coordinate efforts across teams, programs, and partner organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.
• Maintain full compliance with EEC annual training hour requirements; full-time staff are required to complete a minimum 24 hours of training, part-time and per diem are required to complete a minimum 12 hours of training.
• Maintain full EEC compliance with Background Record Check processes, including renewal of the BRC every three years.

Position Purpose

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations.

Essential Responsibilities

• Nurture and support a milieu approach that is participant-guided, family-driven, strengths-based, trauma-informed and embraces a framework of empowerment and encouragement, engaging with 100% of individuals and families that are on-site each shift.
• Encourage and support the development of life skills, positive parenting and improved parent-child interaction- 1:1 or group format to include recreational, educational, cultural or those that promote family engagement (3x per week for TPP DSA and minimally once weekly for NB and DVSS DSA).
• Follow and encourage the programs daily schedule and facilitate resident participation and community responsibilities, taking into account individualized plans for each participant.
• Ongoing individual resident support with 85% of time on shift in direct service role providing face to face contact and interaction with participant’s and their children in order to support.
• Ensure program procedures, rules, regulations and policies are followed to ensure a safe and supportive living environment including completion of 100% of all required safety sweeps (minimum of four times) each shift to ensure premises including alarms, doors, windows, appliances and bedrooms are all safe.
• To facilitate integration into the program, provide orientation and emotional support to participants upon arrival and complete intake paperwork with 100% of participants within 24 hours of arrival.
• To ensure participants are properly welcomed to the program, prepares rooms for new families within 1-2 shifts from previous exit.
• Provide daily information as it relates to data collection and outcome measurements through the completion of 100% of Client Track Services logs prior to end of shift.
• Required documentation and daily program communication including case notes, resident files and communication logs, completing 100% of all documentation prior to the end of shift.
• Perform regular job duties to be observed by new staff during the job shadowing portion of program orientation.
• Engage with residents at 100% of all meal times and ensure that participants clean up the dining area prior to leaving as well as kitchen prior to cooking.
• Ensure thorough communication of staff from shift to shift.
• Assist with child care as needed to support service planning goal activities completion.
• To support children’s safety and well-being, ensure mothers supervise children at all times and offer support to moms during a crisis or periods where they may be overwhelmed.
• Conducts safety checks on residents and children as needed and completes 100% of all required safety checks.
• Answer phones and provide information and referral; answer hotline as needed (DVSS DSA’s only).
• Attend scheduled staff meetings, supervision and trainings as required.
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to:  vacuuming, laundry, loading/unloading groceries, shoveling, raking, mopping, preparation of bedrooms) including ensuring 100% of chores were completed properly before signing off on the chore list.
• Provide transportation to residents and adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts, car seat requirements and speed limits at all times to include ratio of 1:5 (ratio applies to TPP only).
• Perform other related duties as needed. 

Qualifications

• A.A. or equivalent education or experience in a human service field;
• One year of counseling and direct service experience;
• Experience working in residential setting preferred;
• Familiarity with issues of domestic violence;
• Experience with survivors of gender-based violence and exploitation;
• Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on multiple communities;
• Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
• Ability to represent agency from a management perspective in an active union environment;
• Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy; and
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

EEO STATEMENT

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include select, non-exempt positions covered under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.  

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.

 
Department:       Holyoke Teen Parent Program   

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering survivors. We provide a safe place for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our programs and services include crisis shelter and transitional housing for survivors and their families, counseling, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, community education, supervised visitation, HIV education and testing, and vocational training. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus.

Expectations of all employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and other stakeholders.
• Reflect on and interrupt assumptions, personal and systemic biases, and sources of power when interacting or communicating with colleagues, clients, and external partners.
• Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
• Coordinate efforts across teams, programs, and partner organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.
• Complete a minimum of 12 hours of training annually in accordance with Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) mandates.
• Successfully complete the EEC mandated Background Record Check process every three 3 years.

Position Purpose

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations.

Essential Responsibilities

• Nurture and support a milieu approach that is participant-guided, family-driven, strengths-based, and trauma-informed and embraces a framework of empowerment and encouragement;
• Encourage and support the development of life skills and positive parent-child interaction through recreational, educational, and cultural or those that promote family engagement groups and individual sessions;
• Promote a safe and supportive living environment by modeling organizational policy and guidelines as well as completing all safety checks;
• Provide daily information as it relates to data collection and outcome measurements through the completion of Apricot logs prior to end of shift;
• Assist with child care as needed;
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to:  vacuuming, laundry, shoveling, mopping);
• Provide transportation to residents while adhering to all safety laws/policies;
• Attend scheduled staff meetings, supervision and trainings as required; and
• Perform other related duties as needed. 

Qualifications

• A.A. or equivalent education or experience in a human service field;
• One year of counseling, direct service experience, and/or residential experience;
• Familiarity with issues of domestic violence and survivors of gender-based violence and exploitation;
• Strong Communication and computer skills;
• Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on communities;
• Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
• Ability to represent agency from a management perspective in an active union environment;
• Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy; and
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

BENEFITS

The YWCA offers a wide range of competitive benefits including health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, generous paid time-off, and an employer matched retirement plan.

STATEMENT OF EQUALITY

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include select, non-exempt positions covered under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.  

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.  

Reports to:          Program Director 

Schedule:             Every other Thrusday-Saturday_10pm to 8am (PT) 

FLSA Status:        Non-Exempt 

Starting Rate:      $14.00/hour 

URL:                     www.ywworks.org/employment

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering survivors. We provide a safe place for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our programs and services include crisis shelter and transitional housing for survivors and their families, counseling, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, community education, supervised visitation, HIV education and testing, and vocational training. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus.

Expectations of all employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and other stakeholders.
• Reflect on and interrupt assumptions, personal and systemic biases, and sources of power when interacting or communicating with colleagues, clients, and external partners.
• Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
• Foster a positive working environment.
• Coordinate efforts across teams, programs, and partner organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.
• Maintain full compliance with EEC annual training hour requirements; full-time staff are required to complete a minimum 24 hours of training, part-time and per diem are required to complete a minimum 12 hours of training.
• Maintain full EEC compliance with Background Record Check processes, including renewal of the BRC every three years.

Position Purpose

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations.

Essential Responsibilities

• Nurture and support a milieu approach that is participant-guided, family-driven, strengths-based, trauma-informed and embraces a framework of empowerment and encouragement, engaging with 100% of individuals and families that are on-site each shift.
• Encourage and support the development of life skills, positive parenting and improved parent-child interaction- 1:1 or group format to include recreational, educational, cultural or those that promote family engagement (3x per week for TPP DSA and minimally once weekly for NB and DVSS DSA).
• Follow and encourage the programs daily schedule and facilitate resident participation and community responsibilities, taking into account individualized plans for each participant.
• Ongoing individual resident support with 85% of time on shift in direct service role providing face to face contact and interaction with participant’s and their children in order to support.
• Ensure program procedures, rules, regulations and policies are followed to ensure a safe and supportive living environment including completion of 100% of all required safety sweeps (minimum of four times) each shift to ensure premises including alarms, doors, windows, appliances and bedrooms are all safe.
• To facilitate integration into the program, provide orientation and emotional support to participants upon arrival and complete intake paperwork with 100% of participants within 24 hours of arrival.
• To ensure participants are properly welcomed to the program, prepares rooms for new families within 1-2 shifts from previous exit.
• Provide daily information as it relates to data collection and outcome measurements through the completion of 100% of Client Track Services logs prior to end of shift.
• Required documentation and daily program communication including case notes, resident files and communication logs, completing 100% of all documentation prior to the end of shift.
• Perform regular job duties to be observed by new staff during the job shadowing portion of program orientation.
• Engage with residents at 100% of all meal times and ensure that participants clean up the dining area prior to leaving as well as kitchen prior to cooking.
• Ensure thorough communication of staff from shift to shift.
• Assist with child care as needed to support service planning goal activities completion.
• To support children’s safety and well-being, ensure mothers supervise children at all times and offer support to moms during a crisis or periods where they may be overwhelmed.
• Conducts safety checks on residents and children as needed and completes 100% of all required safety checks.
• Answer phones and provide information and referral; answer hotline as needed (DVSS DSA’s only).
• Attend scheduled staff meetings, supervision and trainings as required.
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to:  vacuuming, laundry, loading/unloading groceries, shoveling, raking, mopping, preparation of bedrooms) including ensuring 100% of chores were completed properly before signing off on the chore list.
• Provide transportation to residents and adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts, car seat requirements and speed limits at all times to include ratio of 1:5 (ratio applies to TPP only).
• Perform other related duties as needed. 

Qualifications

• A.A. or equivalent education or experience in a human service field;
• One year of counseling and direct service experience;
• Familiarity with issues of domestic violence;
• Experience with survivors of gender-based violence and exploitation;
• Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on multiple communities;
• Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
• Ability to represent agency from a management perspective in an active union environment;
• Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy; and
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

EEO STATEMENT

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include select, non-exempt positions covered under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.  

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.

Department:             Parent & Youth Support Programs

 Reports to:              Direct Care Supervisor of Supervised Visitation 

Schedule:                 Per Diem 

Location:                  All Supervised Visitation Sites 

FLSA Status:            Non-Exempt 

Starting Rate:          $16.00/hour 

URL:                         www.ywworks.org/employment 

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering survivors. We provide a safe place for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our programs and services include crisis shelter and transitional housing for survivors and their families, counseling, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, community education, supervised visitation, HIV education and testing, and vocational training. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus.

Expectations of all employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and others.
• Reflect on and interrupt assumptions, personal and systemic biases, and sources of power when interacting or communicating with colleagues, clients, and external partners.
• Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
• Perform quality work within program guidelines and deadlines.
• Work effectively as a team contributor and foster a positive working environment.
• Work independently while understanding the need for communication and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.

Position Purpose

The YWCA’s Supervised Visitation Program allows parents in high conflict or high risk situations to spend time parenting their child in a safe, structured, and supportive environment. Trained Visit Monitors support the non-custodial parent in developing a healthy and loving relationship with their child while following all policies and guidelines designed to ensure safety.  The Relief Visit Monitor is also responsible for communicating regularly with the Lead Visit Monitor regarding the status of visits and any concerns.

Essential Responsibilities

• Assist with set up and closing of center to include setting up of rooms and cleaning up at end of the day.
• Get briefing on visiting families prior to their arrival from Lead Visit Monitor or Direct Care Supervisor.
• Assist in ensuring non-residential parents are received 20 minutes before each visit and are waiting in the designated area, supervised by security. Similarly, assist in ensuring that non-residential parents are held back an additional 20 minutes at the end of each visit.
• Ensure the preparation of documents to be used during the visit with a focus on any known safety concerns.
• Provide residential parents and visiting children with a focused plan and preparation for a positive and safe transition to visit.
• Conduct monitoring and observation of non-residential parent visits with children while keeping accurate and detailed factual notes, documenting interactions on observation forms for visits, and noting child’s appearance and apparent readiness for visit.
• Coordinate visitation activities with security or Lead Visit Monitor as necessary.
• Model appropriate parenting behavior and encourage healthy parent child relationships.
• Ensure parties are referred as necessary to outside referral sources for domestic violence, batterer’s treatment, counseling, financial assistance, etc.
• Ensure compliance with center rules and policies while making interventions as necessary.
• Communicate in a timely manner with Lead Monitor on any incidents and issues.
• Ensure that transportation of children at exchanges and visits adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts and car seats.
• Monitor visits at other Visitation Center sites if needed for coverage.
• Attend supervision, trainings and staff meetings as required.
• Other relevant duties as necessary.

Qualifications

• A.A. or equivalent with 2 years of relevant experience in human services field.
• Excellent verbal, written, and organizational skills.
• Ability to resolve conflict in appropriate ways.
• Prior experience working with survivors of violence and/or those who have perpetrated violence in an intimate partner relationship preferred.
• Experience and knowledge of child development and impact of domestic violence on children preferred.
• Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on multiple communities.
• Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias.
• Bilingual (Spanish-speaking) preferred.
• Experience with and knowledge of accessing resources within the community.
• Access to reliable transportation and valid driver’s license required. Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy.
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

EEO STATEMENT

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include select, non-exempt positions.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.  

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.

Department:        Springfield Teen Parent Program                 

Reports to:          Director of Teen Residential Services 

Schedule:            Per Diem for All Shifts (Minimum of 3 Shifts per Month) 

FLSA Status:       Non-Exempt 

Starting Rate:     $14.00/hour 

URL:                    www.ywworks.org/employment

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering survivors. We provide a safe place for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our programs and services include crisis shelter and transitional housing for survivors and their families, counseling, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, community education, supervised visitation, HIV education and testing, and vocational training. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus.

Expectations of all employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and other stakeholders.
• Reflect on and interrupt assumptions, personal and systemic biases, and sources of power when interacting or communicating with colleagues, clients, and external partners.
• Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
• Foster a positive working environment.
• Coordinate efforts across teams, programs, and partner organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.
• Maintain full compliance with EEC annual training hour requirements; full-time staff are required to complete a minimum 24 hours of training, part-time and per diem are required to complete a minimum 12 hours of training.
• Maintain full EEC compliance with Background Record Check processes, including renewal of the BRC every three years.

Position Purpose

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations.

Essential Responsibilities

• Nurture and support a milieu approach that is participant-guided, family-driven, strengths-based, trauma-informed and embraces a framework of empowerment and encouragement, engaging with 100% of individuals and families that are on-site each shift.
• Encourage and support the development of life skills, positive parenting and improved parent-child interaction- 1:1 or group format to include recreational, educational, cultural or those that promote family engagement (3x per week for TPP DSA and minimally once weekly for NB and DVSS DSA).
• Follow and encourage the programs daily schedule and facilitate resident participation and community responsibilities, taking into account individualized plans for each participant.
• Ongoing individual resident support with 85% of time on shift in direct service role providing face to face contact and interaction with participant’s and their children in order to support.
• Ensure program procedures, rules, regulations and policies are followed to ensure a safe and supportive living environment including completion of 100% of all required safety sweeps (minimum of four times) each shift to ensure premises including alarms, doors, windows, appliances and bedrooms are all safe.
• To facilitate integration into the program, provide orientation and emotional support to participants upon arrival and complete intake paperwork with 100% of participants within 24 hours of arrival.
• To ensure participants are properly welcomed to the program, prepares rooms for new families within 1-2 shifts from previous exit.
• Provide daily information as it relates to data collection and outcome measurements through the completion of 100% of Apricot Services logs prior to end of shift.
• Required documentation and daily program communication including case notes, resident files and communication logs, completing 100% of all documentation prior to the end of shift.
• Perform regular job duties to be observed by new staff during the job shadowing portion of program orientation.
• Engage with residents at 100% of all meal times and ensure that participants clean up the dining area prior to leaving as well as kitchen prior to cooking.
• Ensure thorough communication of staff from shift to shift.
• Assist with child care as needed to support service planning goal activities completion.
• To support children’s safety and well-being, ensure mothers supervise children at all times and offer support to moms during a crisis or periods where they may be overwhelmed.
• Conducts safety checks on residents and children as needed and completes 100% of all required safety checks.
• Answer phones and provide information and referral; answer hotline as needed (DVSS DSA’s only).
• Attend scheduled staff meetings, supervision and trainings as required.
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to:  vacuuming, laundry, loading/unloading groceries, shoveling, raking, mopping, preparation of bedrooms) including ensuring 100% of chores were completed properly before signing off on the chore list.
• Provide transportation to residents and adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts, car seat requirements and speed limits at all times to include ratio of 1:5 (ratio applies to TPP only).
• Perform other related duties as needed. 

Qualifications

• A.A. or equivalent education or experience in a human service field;
• One year of counseling and direct service experience;
• Familiarity with issues of domestic violence;
• Experience with survivors of gender-based violence and exploitation;
• Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on multiple communities;
• Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
• Ability to represent agency from a management perspective in an active union environment;
• Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy; and
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

EEO STATEMENT

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include select, non-exempt positions covered under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.  

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.

Reports to:               Director of Community Support Programs 

Schedule:                 Per Diem for All Shifts (Minimum of 2 Shifts per Month) 

FLSA Status:            Non-Exempt 

Starting Rate:          $16.00/hour 

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering survivors. We provide a safe place for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our programs and services include crisis shelter and transitional housing for survivors and their families, counseling, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, community education, supervised visitation, HIV education and testing, and vocational training. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus.

Expectations of all employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and other stakeholders.
• Reflect on and interrupt assumptions, personal and systemic biases, and sources of power when interacting or communicating with colleagues, clients, and external partners.
• Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
• Foster a positive working environment.
• Coordinate efforts across teams, programs, and partner organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality. 

Position Purpose

The Llamanos Hotline Advocate provides support, advocacy and crisis response on our 24-hour hotline for survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking, significant others, and professionals. Hotline Workers are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, and outside connections to best serve those calling our hotline. 

Essential Responsibilities

• Provide trauma-informed, strengths-based telephone interventions that incorporate safety planning and assessment of immediate needs.
• Answer 24-hour Llamanos Hotline Line within the first 3 rings.
• Ensure bed-update system receives a login and updates/changes within the 1^st hour of each shift and again as space changes.
• Conducts shelter and community-based counseling intakes.
• Complete hotline logs, case notes, incident reports, logs, and service tracking logs prior to the end of shift.
• Complete overnight checklists.
• Maintain client records.
• Attend supervision, trainings, and staff meetings.
• Assist with staffing shelter during crisis situations or in times where support is needed.
• Perform other related duties as requested.

• Provide back-up support to the YW’s new Homelessness Helpline by responding to calls, helping the caller to create a safety plan, and making referrals to the Outreach Worker or Case Manager.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree plus 1 - 3 years of experience in human services;
• Spanish language proficiency required;
• Excellent verbal, written, and organizational skills, including computer skills;
• Ability to resolve conflict in appropriate ways;
• Prior experience working with survivors of violence and/or those who have perpetrated violence in an intimate partner relationship preferred;
• Experience and knowledge of child development and impact of domestic violence on children preferred;
• Experience with survivors of gender-based violence and exploitation;
• Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on communities;
• Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
• Ability to represent agency from a management perspective in an active union environment;
• Must have knowledge of/contacts with community agencies;
• Experience with and knowledge of accessing resources within the community;
• Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy; and
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

EEO STATEMENT

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include select, non-exempt positions covered under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.  

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.

Reports to:          Site Director  

FLSA Status:       Non-Exempt 

Starting Rate:    $14.00/hour 

Schedule:            Per Diem for All Shifts (Minimum of 3 Shifts per Month) 

URL:                    www.ywworks.org/employment 

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering survivors. We provide a safe place for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our programs and services include crisis shelter and transitional housing for survivors and their families, counseling, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, community education, supervised visitation, HIV education and testing, and vocational training. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus.

Expectations of all employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and others.
• Perform quality work within program guidelines and deadlines.
• Work effectively as a team contributor and foster a positive working environment.
• Work independently while understanding the need for communication and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.
• Maintain full compliance with EEC annual training hour requirements; full-time staff are required to complete a minimum 24 hours of training, part-time and per diem are required to complete a minimum 12 hours of training.
• Maintain full EEC compliance with Background Record Check processes, including renewal of the BRC every three years. 

Position Purpose: 

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations. 

Essential Responsibilities

• Nurture and support a milieu approach that is participant-guided, family-driven, strengths-based, trauma-informed and embraces a framework of empowerment and encouragement, engaging with 100% of individuals and families that are on-site each shift.
• Encourage and support the development of life skills, positive parenting and improved parent-child interaction- 1:1 or group format to include recreational, educational, cultural or those that promote family engagement (3x per week for TPP DSA and minimally once weekly for NB and DVSS DSA).
• Follow and encourage the programs daily schedule and facilitate resident participation and community responsibilities, taking into account individualized plans for each participant.
• Ongoing individual resident support with 85% of time on shift in direct service role providing face to face contact and interaction with participant’s and their children in order to support.
• Ensure program procedures, rules, regulations and policies are followed to ensure a safe and supportive living environment including completion of 100% of all required safety sweeps (minimum of four times) each shift to ensure premises including alarms, doors, windows, appliances and bedrooms are all safe.
• To facilitate integration into the program, provide orientation and emotional support to participants upon arrival and complete intake paperwork with 100% of participants within 24 hours of arrival.
• To ensure participants are properly welcomed to the program, prepares rooms for new families within 1-2 shifts from previous exit.
• Provide daily information as it relates to data collection and outcome measurements through the completion of 100% of Client Track Services logs prior to end of shift.
• Required documentation and daily program communication including case notes, resident files and communication logs, completing 100% of all documentation prior to the end of shift.
• Perform regular job duties to be observed by new staff during the job shadowing portion of program orientation.
• Engage with residents at 100% of all meal times and ensure that participants clean up the dining area prior to leaving as well as kitchen prior to cooking.
• Ensure thorough communication of staff from shift to shift.
• Assist with child care as needed to support service planning goal activities completion.
• To support children’s safety and well-being, ensure mothers supervise children at all times and offer support to moms during a crisis or periods where they may be overwhelmed.
• Conducts safety checks on residents and children as needed and completes 100% of all required safety checks.
• Answer phones and provide information and referral; answer hotline as needed (DVSS DSA’s only).
• Attend scheduled staff meetings, supervision and trainings as required.
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to:  vacuuming, laundry, loading/unloading groceries, shoveling, raking, mopping, preparation of bedrooms) including ensuring 100% of chores were completed properly before signing off on the chore list.
• Provide transportation to residents and adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts, car seat requirements and speed limits at all times to include ratio of 1:5 (ratio applies to TPP only).
• Complete 100% of urine screen collections on designated days for collection assigned by DCS.(applies to NB DSA only).
• Perform other related duties as needed. 

Qualifications

• A.A. or equivalent education or experience in a human service field;
• One year of counseling and direct service experience;

• Experience working in residential setting preferred;
• Experience with survivors of gender-based violence and exploitation;
• Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on multiple communities;
• Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
• Ability to represent agency from a management perspective in an active union environment;
• Excellent written and organizational skills including computer skills;
• Must have knowledge of/contacts with community agencies;
• Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy; and
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

• Familiarity with issues of domestic violence;

EEO STATEMENT:

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT:

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include non-exempt positions.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS:

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.  

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD:

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.

Department:       Domestic Violence Shelter Services (DVSS)

Reports to:          Direct Care Supervisor, DVSS

FLSA Status:        Non-Exempt

Starting Rate:      $14.00/hour 

Schedule:             Per Diem (Minimum of 3 Shifts per Month) 

Post Date:           Evergreen   

URL:                    www.ywworks.org/employment   

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering survivors. We provide a safe place for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Our programs and services include crisis shelter and transitional housing for survivors and their families, counseling, SAFEPLAN court advocacy, community education, supervised visitation, HIV education and testing, and vocational training. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus.

Expectations of all Employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s social justice mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and others.
• Perform quality work within program guidelines and deadlines.
• Work effectively as a team contributor and foster a positive working environment.
• Work independently while understanding the need for communication and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.

Summary

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen, and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations. 

Duties and Responsibilities

• Answer hotline as needed.
• Conduct shelter screenings and intakes as needed.
• Provide crisis intervention as needed.
• Help residents become acquainted with shelter and other residents upon arrival.
• Provide counseling to resident upon arrival and as needed throughout their stay.
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to:  vacuuming, laundry, shoveling, mopping).
• Ensure residents are following shelter schedule, including wake up times as applicable.
• Enforce shelter rules and guidelines.
• Assist with children’s groups as needed.
• Engage with residents at meal time and ensure that residents clean up their area prior to leaving dining area.
• Ensure completion of chores as applicable.
• Complete all required paperwork.
• Maintain client records.
• Ensure parents / guardians supervise children, including at bedtime as applicable.
• Prepare rooms for residents including washing, drying and putting away linen.
• Attend monthly staff meetings.
• Provide transportation to residents and adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts, car seat requirements and speed limits at all times.
• Perform other related duties as needed. 

Qualifications

• A.A. or equivalent education or experience in a human service field;
• One year of counseling and direct service experience;
• Familiarity with issues of domestic violence;
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and telephone; and
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.

EEO STATEMENT

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. 

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position. 

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include select, non-exempt positions.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA. 

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day introductory period.

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Employee Signature                                                           Date