Shelter Worker

Reporting to the Shelter Manager and working closely with the Women and Family Services Team, the Worker is accountable to create a safe and supportive environment for vulnerable women and families impacted by violence and abuse seeking help.

Our services include a 24-hour helpline and emergency shelter, risk assessment and safety planning, advocacy, system navigation, individual and group healing opportunities, and community development.

We are currently seeking an individual who shares our values and commitment to helping women and children, to join our team. We come alongside one woman, one family at a time, to support them on their healing journey, while working towards restoring the broader wellbeing of our community. We have a vision for a vibrant connected community where individuals can thrive in healthy relationships.

**Key Responsibilities**

In a manner consistent with the agency’s values and aligned with the agency’s vision and purposes, the Shelter Worker will:

- **Safety and Shelter**:

- Assist with the upkeep of the shelter, including cleaning and organizing common areas to maintain a warm, welcoming and safe environment.
- Maintain security of the shelter. Monitor entrances and security cameras, conduct regular checks and ensuring all safety protocols are followed.
- Maintain shelter expectations and guidelines, and address any safety concerns.
- Ensure a psychologically safe environment for residents by being accessible to women, ensuring confidentiality of information in accordance with agency policies, addressing and resolving emotionally unsafe situations in a person-centered approach.
- Address and mediate any conflicts that arise between residents, promoting a peaceful and respectful environment.
- Keep accurate records of incidents and any other relevant information to ensure continuity of care and compliance with shelter policies.
- Monitor supplies including groceries, ensuring restocking of supplies to meet the needs of shelter residents.
- Maintain shelter cleanliness including keeping the frontline workspace tidy.
- **Support and Advocacy**:

- **Client Intakes**: Conduct shelter intakes with empathy, building rapport and trust with callers or residents. Provide strength-based assessments, risk assessments and safety plans for women seeking services at the Women’s Rural Resource Center (WRRC). Provide appropriate external and internal referrals where necessary. Ensure all administrative duties are completed and entered into the database in a timely manner.
- **Support**: Enhance women’s capacity to make informed choices by active listening, identifying strengths, and reviewing options while they access WRRC services either through the shelter, helpline, or walk-in.
- **Crisis Intervention**: Provide immediate assistance and emotional support to residents and individuals in crisis, ensuring they feel safe and heard.
- **Needs Assessment**: Determine the nature of needs identified by women and children accessing WRRC services upon intake and throughout their relationship with WRRC.
- **Record Keeping**: Maintain accurate and detailed records of all interactions and assessments. Maintain appropriate documentation in case files and logs, complete incident reports, safety plans and all other forms necessary.
- **Other**:

- Ensure the completion of shift responsibilities and routines.
- Complete housekeeping duties, meal preparation and meal support to residents, laundry, and room preparation for incoming residents.
- Advocates are to be available for supportive counselling, crisis support and de
- escalation when necessary.

**Required Skills and Qualifications**

**1. Education**

a. University Degree/College Diploma is a Social Services program or related field.

b. Working towards completion of a diploma/degree.

c. A combination of experience and training will be considered.

**2. Experience**

a. The ability to make independent decisions based on experience and judgment; flexibility to work as a member of a team with mínimal supervision.

b. Experience with women and children in a supportive housing, residential/shelter setting an asset.

**3. Personal Characteristics**

a. Excellent conflict resolution skills: ability to facilitate difficult conversations in a diplomatic manner.

b. Demonstrated women’s advocacy skills, strong case planning skills and effective child/women-centered practice delivery.

c. Superior communication, listening and assessment skills.

d. Demonstrated organizational and multi-tasking skills, exceptional customer service skills.

e. Strong attention to detail.

f. Promote an environment of inclusion that promotes equity and respects diversity.

g. Understanding and awareness of cultural safety.
- Demonstrate leadership skills.
- Sound understanding of gender-based violence and the complex issues facing our clients.
- Ability to work independently and effectively.

h. Valid driver’s license; access to a reliable vehicle and proof of adequate insuran