Shelter Advocate at Alliance for Community Transformations – Merced, California

The Advocate provides crisis intervention, advocacy, case management, legal and social service support, safety planning, and resource coordination to individuals impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and related crimes. This role assists survivors in navigating complex systems such as law enforcement, the legal system, Human Services, medical providers, and community programs, while promoting survivor empowerment, safety, and self-sufficiency. Advocates also support shelter operations, facilitate workshops or support groups, and maintain thorough documentation in alignment with Alliance for Community Transformations’ mission and values.

· Respond to victims of crime to reduce trauma and provide crisis support during hotline, walk-in, or field responses.

· Complete assessments and intakes to determine needs and eligibility.

· Provide short-term peer counseling, emotional support, and stabilization.

· Conduct safety planning and follow-up contact.

· Respond to after-hours and weekend crisis calls on a rotating on-call schedule.

· Communicate with law enforcement, medical staff, and emergency responders as needed.

· Maintain confidentiality and adhere to agency values and standards.

Advocacy (DV/SA, Family Violence, Legal, and Community-Based)

· Provide advocacy and accompaniment for clients during:

o Law enforcement interviews

o Medical exams

o Court hearings (criminal, civil, family)

o Appointments with Human Services or investigative agencies

· Assist clients in filing for protective orders and navigating criminal/civil court processes.

· Explain legal options, crime victim rights, and system procedures.

· Advocate for client safety, needs, and access to services.

· Prepare correspondence and written advocacy on behalf of clients.

· Provide information and updates regarding case status and system processes.

· Offer legal advocacy services in rural or remote county areas, as needed.

· Assess clients’ short- and long-term needs.

· Assist clients in creating goal plans and identifying barriers.

· Provide referrals to community agencies, shelter, legal services, medical providers, and social services.

· Provide transportation when necessary and safe.

· Serve as a liaison between clients and community partners.

· Assist with documentation needed for Human Services or partner agencies.

· Support clients through child welfare/social services processes when appropriate.

· Patrol and ensure safety of facilities and residents.

· Conduct shelter intakes, orientations, and enforce guidelines.

· Monitor residents, complete room checks, and document overnight issues.

· Facilitate house meetings and group activities.

· Maintain facility cleanliness and report maintenance needs.

· Provide childcare support or children’s activities when necessary.

· Assist with presentations, trainings, awareness events, and prevention activities.

· Facilitate legal workshops or educational groups.

· Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, Domestic Violence response team meetings, and partner agency collaborations.

· Support volunteer activities and community program engagement.

· Complete timely and accurate case notes, logs, incident reports, and required documentation.

· Maintain statistical and grant-required reporting.

· Update client records and communication logs.

· Document service outcomes and safety concerns promptly.

· Follow agency policies, protocols, confidentiality laws, and mandatory reporting requirements.

Additional Responsibilities

General Program Duties

· Attend staff meetings, training, and supervision.

· Represent the agency in a professional and competent manner.

· Keep current on available community resources.

· Support general office and program operations, including inventory, cleanliness, and communication.

· Uphold Alliance values and mission in all interactions.

· Perform other duties as assigned within scope of job classification