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1731_Llamanos Hotline Worker_PT_CBDV_Monday-Friday_$19

By Employment

Reports to:                        Hotline Direct Care Supervisor

Schedule:                           Every other Friday/Saturday _11pm to 7am (PT)

FLSA Status:                      Non-Exempt

Starting Rate:                   $19.00/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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Ensure bed-update system receives a login and updates/changes within the 1st 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.

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.

APPLY HERE

 

Current Employees Apply Here
September 22, 2023
Love0

1730_Domestic Violence Counselor_PT_CBDV_Monday-Friday_$19

By Employment

Department: Community Support Programs

Reports to: Direct Care Supervisor of CBDV

Schedule: Part-time, 22.5 hours/Biweekly

Pay Rate: $19.00 per hour

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

The YWCA of Western MA is dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women. The YW provides a safe place for survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual assault. 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 ages of 17-24. The YWCA provides services at several sites, including Holyoke, Northampton, Westfield, and our primary Springfield campus. 

Expectations of 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

The Domestic Violence Services Counselor provides emotional support, individual counseling, safety planning, court advocacy, options counseling, and support groups to survivors of domestic violence. The position also supports community outreach and education efforts.

 

Responsibilities

  • Provide individual counseling to survivors of domestic violence in English and/or Spanish for 5-8 sessions with a focus on safety planning and options to satisfy survivor-identified immediate needs.
  • Conduct 2-3 community groups for survivors of domestic violence and survivors of domestic violence with co-occurring/compounding trauma- including a drop-in group and DCF-mandated group.
  • Initiate contact with outside providers and maintain a working relationship.
  • Make appropriate internal and external referrals and follow-up with clients.
  • Complete accurate and timely documentation of services including intakes, assessments, and safety plans using the agency’s Client Track system and manual filing system while adhering to confidentiality standards.
  • Maintain and continually update client records and program files.
  • Complete monthly data collection requirements.
  • Provide court accompaniment to participants as necessary.
  • Attend required meetings and supervision.
  • Perform other duties as needed. 

Qualifications

  • Associate’s degree or equivalent education with a minimum of 2 years of experience in a human service field.
  • Spanish language proficiency required.
  • Experience with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, teen dating violence and/or stalking.
  • Experience working in collaboration with multiple entities, such as nonprofit organizations, public schools or colleges.
  • Experience in public speaking with both youth and adults.
  • Experience working with a diverse population.
  • Excellent verbal, written, and organizational skills, including strong computer skills.
  • Access to reliable transportation and valid driver’s license required.
  • Must be able to lift 40 pounds.

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.

 

APPLY HERE

 

Current Employees Apply Here
September 22, 2023
Love0

1722_Direct Service Advocate_DVSS_PT_Every Other Saturday to Sunday_11pm to 7am_$20

By Employment, Uncategorized

Schedule: Saturday-Sunday 3pm-11pm (PT); 15 hours bi-weekly

Expectations of all employees

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

  • Demonstrate commitment to the YW’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
  • Represent the YW in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and other stakeholders.
  • Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
  • Communicate openly and contribute to the development of others.
  • 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 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

  • 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;
  • 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 and maintain client records;
  • 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; and
  • Perform other related duties as needed.

Qualifications

  • Associate’s degree plus 1 – 3 years of experience in human services;
  • 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;
  • Excellent written and organizational skills including computer skills;
  • Must be able to be covered by the agency’s insurance policy; and
  • Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

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

APPLY HERE Current Employees Apply Here

 

August 4, 2023
Love0

1721_Homelessness Services Outreach Navigator_Coordinated Entry_FT_Monday-Friday_9am to 5pm_$22.05

By Employment

Schedule: Full-Time, 37.50 hours/week Monday – Friday with rotational responsibility for on-call staffing

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.
  • 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 Homelessness Services Outreach Navigator will have an integral role in connecting homeless survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) who are in crisis to housing and social services supports in the community. The position will support the YWCA Domestic Violence Homelessness Helpline by assessing the needs of callers and providing appropriate, effective, trauma-informed referrals and resources. The Outreach Navigator will work in an on-call capacity including being dispatched virtually or in-person to meet with a survivor following an incident of violence. Once the survivor is referred to the program, the Navigator will use trauma-informed interviewing techniques to screen for diversion, prevention, shelter and/or housing needs, vulnerability/prioritization indices, and program eligibility for Rapid Rehousing.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Demonstrate support for Coordinated Entry System (CES) guiding principles, including fair and equal access, safety planning, referral protocols, and consultation.
  • Collaborate with a network of CES community partners including outreach workers, shelter case managers, housing and other service providers, and understand all roles and responsibilities within the CES.
  • Oversee the YWCA’s DV Homelessness Helpful by responding to calls, making referrals, and helping the caller to create a safety plan.
  • Determine program eligibility and make appropriate referrals for callers who do not meet eligibility criteria.
  • Serve in an on-call capacity on a rotating schedule to be dispatched virtually or in-person to meet with a survivor immediately following a violent incident at area hospitals, community health centers, police stations, courthouses, or other locations at which physical distancing is possible. Help develop a plan for safety and begin the CE process when appropriate.
  • Engage survivors in-person by observing nonverbal signs of misunderstanding or concern, and build trust with survivors who may be experiencing anxiety, stress, or fear to effectively utilize the Helpline.
  • Participate in CES development and other trainings as they are offered, and will be flexible to the job role evolving as the CES evolves to best meet the needs of the population served.
  • Perform other duties as requested by the supervisor.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field or relevant experience;
  • Two years of work experience in housing services, placement, and/or case management;
  • Spanish language proficiency required;
  • Experience with and knowledge of accessing housing, homelessness, social service, and other community-based resources;
  • Experience with survivors of violence and exploitation;
  • Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on multiple communities;
  • Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
  • Excellent communication, organizational, problem-solving, and computer skills;
  • Access to reliable transportation and valid driver’s license required. Must be able to be covered by the agency’s insurance policy; and
  • Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

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

APPLY HERE

 

Current Employees Apply Here
July 27, 2023
Love0

1727_SAFEPLAN Advocate_ Springfield_$21.50

By Employment

Schedule: Full time, 37.5 hours/week; Monday—Friday, 8am – 4:30pm, with flexibility to meet program needs

Work Location: 1 Clough Street

Summary

The SAFEPLAN Advocate provides safety planning, information about the court process and options, assistance in the drafting of legal documentation, and daily court advocacy to survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence and stalking as well as their children. They provide referrals to the YWCA, other domestic violence, sexual violence and stalking programs, criminal justice victim services, community social service programs, and the District Attorney’s office as necessary to meet the needs of survivors.

Expectations of all employees

  • 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.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Provide daily in-court advocacy (remotely or at the YWCA Headquarters) and safety planning to survivors of domestic violence and their children at assigned courts for SAFEPLAN.
  • Assists with 209A or 258E application paperwork.
  • Provide information regarding legal options and associated paperwork, including but not limited to, applications for restraining and harassment orders.
  • Provide crisis intervention.
  • Conduct intakes, safety planning and risk assessment using specific safety planning and assessment tools.
  • Provide counseling, support and follow up as well as referrals to the YWCA, other programs, criminal justice victim services, community social service programs and the district attorney’s office as necessary to meet the needs of victims.
  • Communicate regular updates and status of high risk victims to supervisors.
  • Make necessary referrals to the YWCA, District Attorney’s office, Victim Services and other community-based support services.
  • Collaborate with victim witness advocates, agency staff, and other service programs in an effort to provide a continuum of care to victims.
  • Work with MOVA and court/criminal justice personnel to improve services to victims.
  • Ensure ongoing program documentation and evaluation, as well as required SAFEPLAN documentation in accordance with contract obligations and/or best practices.
  • Maintain all files and program records in accordance with ethical and confidentiality standards
  • Submit monthly billing within deadline.
  • Attend all SAFEPLAN scheduled conference calls/meetings
  • Attend staff and supervision meetings as required.
  • Perform other duties as necessary.

Qualifications

  • AA or equivalent education, B.A. preferred;
  • Minimum of 3 years experience in a related human service field;
  • Minimum 2 years experience with victims of domestic violence;
  • Familiarity with and ability to navigate legal / court systems, processes, and issues pertaining to domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and/or harassment;
  • Functional knowledge of relevant laws and regulations;
  • Ability to represent agency from a management perspective in an active union environment;
  • Knowledge of outreach service delivery and community resources;
  • Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on multiple communities;
  • Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
  • Experience with networking, collaborating with agencies and other community resources;
  • Domestic Violence, Sexual Violence, Stalking and SAFEPLAN Certification;
  • Excellent verbal, written, and organizational skills, including strong computer skills;
  • Must be able to be covered by the agency’s insurance policy; and
  • Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

APPLY HERE

 

Current Employees Apply Here
June 23, 2023
Love0

1692_Llamanos Hotline Worker_$19

By Employment

Summary

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.

Expectations of all employees

  • Demonstrate commitment to the YW’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
  • Represent the YW in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and other stakeholders.
  • Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
  • Communicate openly and contribute to the development of others.
  • Coordinate efforts across teams, programs, and partner organizations.
  • Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.

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.
  • 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.
  • Ensure bed-update system receives a login and updates/changes within the 1st 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.

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.
APPLY HERE Current Employees Apply Here
June 22, 2023
Love0

1707_Lead Visit Monitor_Supervised Visitation_$22

By Employment

Schedule:    37.5 hours per week;   Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 10am – 6:30pm;  Friday 12:30pm-8:30pm and Saturday 8:30am – 3:30pm

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

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 & Intake Coordinators 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 Visit Monitor & Intake Coordinator is also responsible for communicating regularly with the Lead Visit Monitor regarding the status of visits and any concerns.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Schedule and conduct in-person intakes and risk assessments with residential and non-residential parents and arrange for site tours and interviews with children prior to first visit.
  • Ensure parties are referred as necessary to external resources for domestic violence, batterer’s intervention, counseling, and financial assistance among others.
  • Attempt contact with families assigned by the Direct Care Supervisor within 2 business days of assignment.
  • Input all new client intakes and goals into Apricot within 3 business days of completion.
  • Monitor supervised visits at Springfield Centers and other Visitation Center sites if needed for coverage.
  • Assist with set up and closing of center to include setting up of rooms and cleaning up at end of the day.
  • Briefing Visit Monitor on visiting families prior to their arrival
  • Ensure the preparation of documents to be used during the visit with a focus on any known safety concerns.
  • Model appropriate parenting behavior and encourage healthy parent child relationships/interactions.
  • Ensure compliance with center rules and policies while making interventions as necessary.
  • Communicate in a timely manner with Direct Care Supervisor 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.
  • Attend supervision, trainings and staff meetings as required.
  • Other relevant duties as necessary.

Qualifications

  • 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;
  • 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; and
  • Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

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.

 

APPLY HERE Current Employees Apply Here

 

June 20, 2023
Love0

1660_Relief Direct Service Advocate_DVSS_$19

By Employment

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

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

  • Demonstrate commitment to the YW’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
  • Represent the YW in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and other stakeholders.
  • Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
  • Communicate openly and contribute to the development of others.
  • Coordinate efforts across teams, programs, and partner 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.

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

APPLY HERE

 

Current Employees Apply Here
May 31, 2023
Love0

1693_Relief Direct Service Advocate_SYPP_$18

By Employment

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

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 YW’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
  • Represent the YW in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and other stakeholders.
  • Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
  • Communicate openly and contribute to the development of others.
  • 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 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;
  • 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;
  • 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.

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD:

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

APPLY HERE Current Employees Apply Here
May 4, 2023
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1729_Domestic Violence Counselor_FT_CBDV_Monday-Friday_9am to 5pm_$19

By Employment

Schedule:   Full time, 37.5 hours/week Monday—Friday_9am-5pm

Expectations of all employees

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

  • Demonstrate commitment to the YW’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
  • Represent the YW in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and other stakeholders.
  • Support policies, practices, and decisions that demonstrate our shared accountability for racial equity.
  • Communicate openly and contribute to the development of others.
  • Coordinate efforts across teams, programs, and partner organizations.
  • Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.

Position Purpose

The Domestic Violence Services Counselor provides emotional support, individual counseling, safety planning, court advocacy, options counseling, and support groups to survivors of domestic violence. The position also supports community outreach and education efforts.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Provide individual counseling to survivors of domestic violence in English and/or Spanish for 5-8 sessions with a focus on safety planning and options to satisfy survivor-identified immediate needs.
  • Conduct 2-3 community groups for survivors of domestic violence and survivors of domestic violence with co-occurring/compounding trauma- including a drop-in group and DCF-mandated group.
  • Initiate contact with outside providers and maintain a working relationship.
  • Make appropriate internal and external referrals and follow-up with clients.
  • Complete accurate and timely documentation of services including intakes, assessments, and safety plans using the agency’s Apricot system and manual filing system while adhering to confidentiality standards.
  • Maintain and continually update client records and program files.
  • Complete monthly data collection requirements.
  • Provide court accompaniment to participants as necessary.
  • Perform other duties as needed.

Training Requirements:

  • Successful completion of all required trainings within introductory period
  • Successful completion of required yearly trainings
  • Attend staff meetings as required

Qualifications

  • Associate’s degree or equivalent education with a minimum of 2 years of experience in a human service field.
  • Spanish language proficiency preferred.
  • Experience with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, teen dating violence and/or stalking.
  • Experience working in collaboration with multiple entities, such as nonprofit organizations, public schools or colleges.
  • Experience in public speaking with both youth and adults.
  • Experience working with a diverse population.
  • 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;
  • Excellent verbal, written, and organizational skills, including strong computer skills.
  • Access to reliable transportation and valid driver’s license required.
  • Must be able to lift 40 pounds.

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.

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

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

 

APPLY HERE

 

Current Employees Apply Here

 

April 24, 2023
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