Shelter Assistant

This position works from 4:00 PM to Midnight

SUMMARY OF PRIMARY FUNCTION

Under the direction of the Shelter Director, a Shelter Assistant is responsible for the peaceful and routine operation of the Men's Drop-In Shelter (DIS). Shelter Assistants maintain a wakeful and continuous presence at the Shelter for the entire duration of a night of operation. The SA may also perform the function of Intake Supervisor at the start of a night, depending on staffing needs and the skills of the individual.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES

1. Maintains oversight and responsible supervision of guests using the emergency drop-in shelter facility in accordance with Porchlight Inc. policies and procedures to include standards dictated by the Porchlight Inc. employee manual and workplace anti-discrimination and harassment procedures.
2. Demonstrates a keen understanding on the use of effective crisis de-escalation and active listening skills.
3. Commits to ongoing continuing education to attain Crisis Intervention Team Training (CIT).
4. Assists in the orientation of new and returning guests and answers their questions to provide low barrier use of the shelter.
5. Follows the DIS Procedures regarding guest behavior, overflow shelter assignment (if necessary), detailed incident reporting per the written guidelines, and general operation.
6. Issues blankets, towels and sheets to guests.
7. Distributes supplies in accord with the DIS Procedures.
8. Monitors the immediate needs of shelter guests and takes steps to assist them as appropriate.
9. Monitors the behavior of shelter guests and takes steps to stop undesirable behavior. Maintains order. Calls for help as appropriate. Reports incidents accurately.
10. Assists volunteer groups as needed in providing meals for the guests.
11. Provides for an equitable distribution of stock food to guests in the event that a volunteer group cancels or does not arrive.
12. Treats the guests with dignity and respect even during times of crisis.
13. Respectfully signals lights out time and turns lights out at that time.
14. Issues proper and appropriate wake-up calls in the morning.
15. Ensures shelter cleanliness; performs nightly touch point and spot cleaning – per scheduled list according COVID-19 guidelines.
16. Patrols the sleeping areas and restrooms periodically throughout the night.
17. Provides advice and support to guests as appropriate.
18. Recommends guests to the Shelter Case Managers for referrals to counseling and social services as needed/appropriate.
19. Assists in overseeing the washing of blankets; assists with the blanket laundering as needed and general up-keep as time permits.
20. Punctually opens and closes shelter within guidelines of Porchlight policy.
21. Secures facility before opening and after closing.
22. Performs other duties and takes on other responsibilities as directed by the Shelter Director.

Teamwork & Collaboration:

1. Works in collaboration with program and all other agency staff to facilitate a team environment.
2. Demonstrates and models effective communication skills in building relationships with all clients and employees.
3. Creates good working relationships with other service providers.
4. Participates in the development and implementation of Porchlight's strategic plan.

Porchlight Values & Culture:

1. Treats all clients, employees, and visitors with caring, kindness, respect, and dignity.
2. Helps to create an environment that values and appreciates diversity.
3. Adheres to all Porchlight policies, procedures, code of conduct, and attendance rules.
4. Maintains strict confidentiality of all information.
5. Adheres to Porchlight policies in the use of computer technology and tele-communications devices.
6. Conducts self within appropriate and expected professional boundaries and policies.
7. Works with clients to eliminate barriers to shelter use.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Genuine desire to work with socially disadvantaged and multi-ethnic populations, including the homeless and those with low incomes.
2. Ability to organize and supervise a function.
3. Ability to motivate and obtain willing cooperation from others.
4. Team orientation with respect for others.
5. Genuine respect for disadvantaged individuals.
6. Ability to work nights.
7. High ethical standards with a desire to look for work that needs to be done.

Employees may not:

• Engage in romantic or sexual relationships with clients
• Use drugs or alcohol with clients, or while working
• Lend, donate, or accept money or gifts directly to or from clients
• Hire clients for personal work or services
• Communicate with clients via personal phone, email, or social media

This job description may not be inclusive of all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described, and may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of Porchlight.