Advocate

Pay: $17.00 per hour

Job description:

Advocate - Outreach

Pay: $17.00 per hour
Job Type: Full-time (onsite)

About Us

Joseph’s House & Shelter is an award-winning nonprofit organization in the Capital Region dedicated to ending homelessness by providing non-judgmental, person-centered services. Our work is grounded in the principles of Housing First and Harm Reduction, meeting individuals and families where they are and supporting them on their path to stability.

We are currently seeking a compassionate, motivated Advocate to join our team across for our Outreach programs.

Position Overview

Advocates play a critical role in supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Depending on program assignment, Advocates may work in the community, in shelter settings, or directly with individuals in permanent housing.

This role requires a non-judgmental, strengths-based approach, strong communication skills, and a commitment to empowering participants to achieve their goals.

Key Responsibilities

Client Support & Advocacy

• Provide respectful, person-centered support to individuals facing homelessness, substance use, and mental health challenges
• Assist participants in achieving personal goals while honoring their values, culture, and self-determination
• Conduct assessments and connect individuals to housing, medical, mental health, and social services
• Provide crisis intervention, goal setting, and ongoing case management

Housing & Stability Support

• Assist with securing and maintaining stable housing
• Support individuals with landlord communication, housing disputes, and tenancy issues
• Conduct home visits (Supported Housing) and community outreach (Outreach role)
• Provide follow-up services to promote long-term housing stability

Outreach & Community Engagement

• Engage unsheltered individuals in the community, including streets, hospitals, jails, and service locations
• Conduct Coordinated Entry assessments and maintain ongoing contact with participants
• Build relationships with community partners and service providers

Shelter-Based Support

• Work directly with shelter guests to identify housing pathways and remove barriers
• Maintain a safe, supportive environment within the shelter setting
• Coordinate referrals and support transitions to permanent housing

Documentation & Coordination

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation (HMIS, assessments, case notes, and required reports)
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to ensure coordinated care
• Participate in team meetings, supervision, and ongoing training

Program & Team Support

• Assist with donation coordination and distribution for individuals and seasonal events
• Demonstrate flexibility, teamwork, and initiative
• Participate in rotating on-call coverage

Schedule

• Full-time, 8-hour shifts - 6:00am-2:00pm & 2pm-10pm
• Shifts may include: days, evenings, overnights, and weekends depending on program needs
• Rotating on-call responsibilities

Benefits & Perks

• 403(b) retirement plan
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional development opportunities

Additional Information

• Work Location: In person
• Background check required.

Work Location: In person

Qualifications

• 1 year of experience in advocacy, social services, or a related field (preferred)
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Commitment to Housing First and Harm Reduction principles
• Valid Driver’s License (required)
• CPR/First Aid Certification (preferred)