Youth Shelter Advocate

Department: Our House
Reports To: Shelter Program Manager
Schedule: Full-Time (Some evenings, weekends, and holidays may be required)
Starting Pay: $20.00 per hour

Join Our Team!

Family Assistance Program is seeking a compassionate, dependable, and motivated Youth Shelter Advocate to join our Our House team. In this role, you will provide direct support, crisis intervention, advocacy, and mentorship to youth in a shelter environment. The ideal candidate is passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of vulnerable youth while creating a safe, supportive, and trauma-informed environment.

If you thrive in a fast-paced setting, enjoy helping others, and are committed to empowering young people, we'd love to hear from you!

What You'll Do

As a Youth Shelter Advocate, you will:

• Provide compassionate support and advocacy to youth in crisis.
• Assess client needs and provide crisis intervention and emergency support.
• Provide emergency hotline counseling and suicide prevention support.
• Supervise youth and volunteers while maintaining a safe, positive, and supportive environment.
• Serve as a positive role model and mentor in accordance with Title 22 licensing regulations.
• Facilitate one-on-one and group support sessions.
• Coordinate with families, schools, and community agencies to ensure youth receive comprehensive services.
• Visit clients at schools or residential placements as needed.
• Maintain accurate documentation and client records while ensuring strict confidentiality.
• Answer incoming calls, make referrals, document communications, and provide follow-up support.
• Assist with client intake, discharge, and ongoing case support.
• Utilize HMIS, CAP360, Apricot, Outlook, Teams, Zoom, and other required systems.
• Implement de-escalation techniques and maintain a trauma-informed approach when working with youth.
• Participate in required trainings, staff meetings, and professional development.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED with at least three (3) years of relevant work experience.
• Experience working with at-risk youth, individuals experiencing crisis, or behavioral health populations.
• Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques and community resources.
• Strong written, verbal, and documentation skills.
• Ability to build trust and rapport with youth and families.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data entry.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Mental Health, Social Services, Human Services, Business, or a related field.
• Bilingual (preferred).
• Experience working in shelters, residential programs, behavioral health, or social services.
• CPR and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain).

Requirements

Applicants must be able to:

• Pass a Live Scan background check.
• Pass a physical examination and TB test.
• Possess a valid California Driver's License.
• Maintain reliable transportation.
• Provide proof of current auto insurance and vehicle registration.
• Maintain a satisfactory driving record (no more than two points).

Physical Requirements

This position requires the ability to:

• Sit, stand, bend, squat, walk, climb stairs, and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Reach overhead and below the waist.
• Use a computer, telephone, and headset for extended periods.
• Work in a moderately noisy environment.
• Travel between work sites as needed.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Why Join Family Assistance Program?

At Family Assistance Program, we are committed to strengthening individuals and families through compassionate services and meaningful support. As a Youth Shelter Advocate, you'll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact in the lives of youth while working alongside a dedicated team that values collaboration, respect, and professional growth.

Apply today and help create a safe place where youth can heal, grow, and thrive.