Shelter Advocate

Domestic Abuse Intervention Services (DAIS) is a renowned non-profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals affected by domestic violence and advocating for social change. Founded with a mission to create safer communities, DAIS offers comprehensive support through education, outreach, and direct intervention to survivors of intimate partner violence. Located in Madison, WI, DAIS is recognized for its trauma-informed approach and commitment to fostering an environment of dignity, safety, and hope for victims and their families. Renowned for its inclusive work culture, DAIS is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer that values diversity and inclusivity.

The role of Shelter Advocate at DAIS plays a vital part in providing immediate safety and support to victims of domestic violence and their children who stay in the emergency shelter. This part-time position, offering a competitive hourly wage of $21.42 with additional shift differentials for overnight hours, involves working variable shifts including weekdays, weekends, occasional overnights, and holidays. Shelter Advocates work as frontline support staff ensuring a safe and clean living space, facilitating client intakes and orientations, and using trauma-informed principles to empower clients through their healing process. Advocates engage residents in communal efforts to maintain cleanliness and order, provide daily living assistance, and communicate shelter guidelines effectively to foster a respectful and supportive living environment.

Shelter Advocates must possess excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to remain professional and maintain boundaries, and physical stamina to perform duties such as moving supplies and monitoring client activities. They serve not only as caretakers of the shelter environment but also as compassionate advocates who support social change through individualized client advocacy. The role demands critical observation skills to detect client needs and emergent situations while providing warm, responsive support. This position requires flexibility in shift work and the capability to work in a physically active environment with exposure to cleaning agents and occasional outdoor weather conditions.

Those interested in joining DAIS as a Shelter Advocate should have a foundational understanding of domestic violence issues, with a preferred background in crisis intervention and residential settings. Bilingual skills and strong computer proficiency, particularly with Microsoft Office, are considered advantageous. This position offers 8 to 19 hours of work weekly and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of individuals impacted by domestic violence. With a clear pathway for applying through the DAIS website, this role is designed for compassionate, committed individuals seeking to make a measurable difference in their community.