Lead Housing Advocate

Position Summary

The Salvation Army Northern Division Harbor Light Center (HLC) and satellite locations is "Doing the Most Good" by providing shelter, housing, and holistic, person-centered, supportive services to over 300 single adults each night. HLC also offers worship services, pastoral care, and connections to community partners.

The Lead Housing Advocate provides direct support to adults experiencing homelessness by building relationships, offering advocacy, and ensuring a safe and welcoming shelter environment. Advocates assist participants in navigating shelter expectations, accessing services, and responding to crises. In addition to direct client care, the Lead Advocate provides on-site oversight in the absence of management, ensuring policies and procedures are followed and escalating concerns to on-call supervisors as needed. The role also includes accurate recordkeeping, promoting engagement in available programs, and collaborating with internal colleagues to support initiatives and maintain resource connections that foster long-term stability.

Essential Functions (Approximate Time Spent)

• Client Care (70%): Provide compassionate, person-centered support to adult participants through both short- and long-term advocacy. Assist participants in navigating shelter policies, responding to crises, and maintaining a safe, respectful environment, including supporting participants on the floor and at meals and conducting regular rounds.

• On-Site Oversight (10%): Act as on-site supervisor in absence of management. Ensure adherence to policies and procedures and contact on-call supervisors as needed.

• Participant Information Management (10%): Ensure participant records, including intakes and incident reports, are accurately maintained and consistently documented in accordance with organizational standards.

• Program Promotion (5%): Connect participants with available social services and corps activities.

• Organizational Engagement & Resource Development (5%): Collaborate with colleagues to support HLC initiatives and help maintain a catalog of local resources that support participant success.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.

• 2-3 years of experience in client- or customer-facing roles, including at least 1 year in a social services, shelter, or related setting.

• Prior supervisory or shift lead experience preferred.

• Must successfully pass all required background checks.

• Valid driver's license and ability to meet MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) requirements preferred.

Competencies

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build rapport and work effectively with diverse populations.

• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and accept supervision and direction.

• Sensitivity to issues related to homelessness, addiction, unemployment, and cultural and racial diversity.

• Demonstrates professionalism, integrity, and discretion in handling confidential information.

• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and a reliable work ethic.

• Proficient in using computers and basic software, including Microsoft Office and data entry systems.

Working Conditions

• Must be able to meet the physical demands of the role, including mobility, standing for extended periods, bending, reaching, and regularly lifting to 20 pounds, with occasional lifting up to 50 pounds.

• Typical schedule includes after-school hours during the academic year and daytime hours in the summer; weekend availability required during the school year for practices and games.

• Position is not eligible for remote work.

• Active participation in sports and youth activities is required.

• Must be able to communicate clearly and work effectively in an in-person environment.
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  1010 Currie Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55403

  
  
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  Full Time, 40hrs/week

  $17.18-$21.48/hour

  
  

Supervisory Responsibilities

None.

Driving/Travel Requirements

• If cleared, drive agency vehicles locally to support the mission.

Other Duties

• All employees recognize that The Salvation Army is a church and agree to support its mission as employees.

• This job description is not all-inclusive and is intended to outline essential functions. The supervisor may assign additional duties, responsibilities, and tasks as needed.