Grand Forks Housing Authority
Shelter Support Advocate Part-Time
Grand Forks Housing Authority, Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States, 58203
Grand Forks Housing Authority
Position: Shelter Support Advocate
Department:
Client Services Reports To:
Shelter Program Coordinator and Client Services Director Location:
The Nest on 4th, Grand Forks, ND
FLSA:
Non-Exempt, paid hourly Status:
Part-Time, Various Shifts (24/7 Operation), Every-Other-Weekend
Position Summary The
Shelter Support Advocate
plays a key role in providing direct support and advocacy for guests at GFHA’s low-barrier emergency shelter. This position supports individuals experiencing homelessness—many of whom may also be navigating mental health challenges, substance use, or trauma—using a
Housing First
and
Harm Reduction
approach.
Under the direction of the Shelter Program Coordinator and Client Services Director, Shelter Support Advocates ensure a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for all guests while maintaining shelter operations and connecting clients to community resources.
Key Responsibilities
Foster a
safe, supportive, and inclusive environment
for all shelter guests in alignment with Housing First and Harm Reduction principles.
Conduct guest
intake, check-in, and bed assignments , assessing for safety and immediate needs.
Provide guests with essential items such as food, toiletries, and bedding.
De-escalate and manage crisis situations
using trauma-informed, empathetic, and nonjudgmental communication techniques.
Monitor shelter activities, maintain order, and promote adherence to shelter rules and policies.
Maintain accurate and confidential
HMIS data, daily logs, incident reports, and communication records
in compliance with HIPAA and CFR 42 regulations.
Build supportive relationships with guests by assisting with problem-solving, goal setting, and referrals to appropriate services.
Coordinate and communicate with
community partners , including law enforcement, healthcare providers, and outreach workers.
Maintain knowledge of
local resources
for housing, substance use treatment, and mental health support.
Assist with
facility cleanliness and safety checks .
Participate in ongoing training related to trauma-informed care, harm reduction, de-escalation, and motivational interviewing.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Skills and Abilities
Strong
crisis intervention and de-escalation skills .
Ability to maintain calm and professionalism in challenging or emotionally charged situations.
Demonstrated empathy, patience, and respect for individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.
Working knowledge of
Housing First ,
Harm Reduction , and
trauma-informed care
models.
Proficient written and verbal communication skills.
Strong organizational and documentation abilities.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards.
Basic computer literacy and comfort with data entry systems (HMIS experience preferred).
Preferred Qualifications
High school diploma or GED required;
Associate degree
in human services or related field preferred.
Two years of experience
working in social services, housing, or a shelter environment.
Experience working with individuals experiencing
homelessness, mental illness, or substance use
strongly preferred.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
Must pass all applicable background checks, including criminal records screening.
Working Conditions
Shelter operates 24/7; shifts may include
days (8:00am–4:30pm) ,
evenings (4:00pm–12:30am) , or
overnights (12:00am–8:30am) .
Work is performed in both office and shelter environments.
Physical activity includes mobility throughout the facility and occasional lifting of supplies or light furniture.
Why Join GFHA?
Be part of a
mission-driven organization
that values compassion, collaboration, and community impact.
Receive comprehensive
training and professional development
in housing and social service practices.
Make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals experiencing homelessness in Grand Forks County.
Grand Forks Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, creed, sexual orientation, marital status, or familial status.
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Position: Shelter Support Advocate
Department:
Client Services Reports To:
Shelter Program Coordinator and Client Services Director Location:
The Nest on 4th, Grand Forks, ND
FLSA:
Non-Exempt, paid hourly Status:
Part-Time, Various Shifts (24/7 Operation), Every-Other-Weekend
Position Summary The
Shelter Support Advocate
plays a key role in providing direct support and advocacy for guests at GFHA’s low-barrier emergency shelter. This position supports individuals experiencing homelessness—many of whom may also be navigating mental health challenges, substance use, or trauma—using a
Housing First
and
Harm Reduction
approach.
Under the direction of the Shelter Program Coordinator and Client Services Director, Shelter Support Advocates ensure a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for all guests while maintaining shelter operations and connecting clients to community resources.
Key Responsibilities
Foster a
safe, supportive, and inclusive environment
for all shelter guests in alignment with Housing First and Harm Reduction principles.
Conduct guest
intake, check-in, and bed assignments , assessing for safety and immediate needs.
Provide guests with essential items such as food, toiletries, and bedding.
De-escalate and manage crisis situations
using trauma-informed, empathetic, and nonjudgmental communication techniques.
Monitor shelter activities, maintain order, and promote adherence to shelter rules and policies.
Maintain accurate and confidential
HMIS data, daily logs, incident reports, and communication records
in compliance with HIPAA and CFR 42 regulations.
Build supportive relationships with guests by assisting with problem-solving, goal setting, and referrals to appropriate services.
Coordinate and communicate with
community partners , including law enforcement, healthcare providers, and outreach workers.
Maintain knowledge of
local resources
for housing, substance use treatment, and mental health support.
Assist with
facility cleanliness and safety checks .
Participate in ongoing training related to trauma-informed care, harm reduction, de-escalation, and motivational interviewing.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Skills and Abilities
Strong
crisis intervention and de-escalation skills .
Ability to maintain calm and professionalism in challenging or emotionally charged situations.
Demonstrated empathy, patience, and respect for individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.
Working knowledge of
Housing First ,
Harm Reduction , and
trauma-informed care
models.
Proficient written and verbal communication skills.
Strong organizational and documentation abilities.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards.
Basic computer literacy and comfort with data entry systems (HMIS experience preferred).
Preferred Qualifications
High school diploma or GED required;
Associate degree
in human services or related field preferred.
Two years of experience
working in social services, housing, or a shelter environment.
Experience working with individuals experiencing
homelessness, mental illness, or substance use
strongly preferred.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
Must pass all applicable background checks, including criminal records screening.
Working Conditions
Shelter operates 24/7; shifts may include
days (8:00am–4:30pm) ,
evenings (4:00pm–12:30am) , or
overnights (12:00am–8:30am) .
Work is performed in both office and shelter environments.
Physical activity includes mobility throughout the facility and occasional lifting of supplies or light furniture.
Why Join GFHA?
Be part of a
mission-driven organization
that values compassion, collaboration, and community impact.
Receive comprehensive
training and professional development
in housing and social service practices.
Make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals experiencing homelessness in Grand Forks County.
Grand Forks Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, creed, sexual orientation, marital status, or familial status.
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