Positions Title: Residential Counselor
Program/Department: Emergency Housing
Reports to: Facilities & Residential Counselor Manager
Status: Full-time, Exempt
Salary: $55,000-$57,000
About the Role
The full-time Residential Counselor plays a crucial role in supporting the residential team, working under the direction of the Shelter Manager. This position is dedicated to providing compassionate support to survivors, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance while promoting a positive and safe living environment. The Residential Counselor will respond to individuals seeking emergency housing, help maintain healthy social interactions between shelter residents and collaborate with Case Managers to support and reinforce each client’s individualized service plan. Additionally, the Residential Counselor will assist in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all residents. This role is essential in fostering a supportive and trauma-informed atmosphere within the shelter. This role will work the 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM shift, Monday through Friday, and will be expected to be physically present at the shelter each day.
About My Sister’s Place
My Sister’s Place is a community of staff, volunteers, and advocates committed to eradicating domestic violence. As DC’s oldest domestic violence shelter, we have served as a cornerstone of the district’s response to this pressing public health issue since 1979. MSP is unique in offering a continuum of care from emergency shelter through transitional-to-permanent housing. Our experienced team of case managers and residential counselors provide clinical counseling, case management, and comprehensive services to empower survivors to recover and thrive. MSP also provides training, case consultation, and advocacy to engage communities to prevent violence and abuse.
What You’ll Be Doing
Safety and Security
• Respond to emergency housing requests and complete housing assessments for callers seeking emergency housing.
• Collaborate with residents to create and maintain safety plans.
• Monitor shelter security, including surveillance systems, and perform routine building and suite checks to ensure the safety of residents.
• Respond to emergencies promptly, contacting authorities or management as needed.
• Serve as emergency personnel during inclement weather or shelter emergencies.
Resident and Visitor Support
• Assist residents with daily responsibilities, providing coaching, modeling, and supportive problem-solving to help them meet their goals.
• Facilitate positive social interactions among shelter residents and foster a supportive environment.
• Manage shelter entry, greet visitors, and ensure professional and welcoming interactions.
• Support residents by distributing household items and toiletries as needed.
• Maintain the dignity and confidentiality of all residents, offering trauma-informed assistance.
Program and Activity Support
• Work closely with case managers and shelter staff to support each client’s individualized service plan.
• Participate in activities that promote resident engagement and well-being.
• Invite residents to participate in group activities and offer support during mealtimes, assisting with setup, cleanup, and food storage.
• Assist with the admission process and prepare rooms for new residents.
Facilities and Maintenance
• Conduct regular walkthroughs to ensure cleanliness, safety, and proper maintenance of shelter spaces.
• Report any facility issues to the Facilities Manager and collaborate with staff to address concerns.
• Ensure that common areas remain clean and organized, and manage supplies appropriately.
Administrative Duties
• Document all interactions with clients and update the daily log with significant shelter events.
• Participate in shift handovers and communicate relevant information to ensure smooth transitions between shifts.
• Attend staff meetings and participate in ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to maintain shelter operations and ensure a positive, supportive environment for all residents.
Compliance and Safety:
• Follow all agency policies, including trauma-informed practices, to ensure that shelter operations align with best practices.
• As a mandated reporter, promptly report any suspected abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities.
• Ensure adherence to all safety protocols, including building evacuation and health emergency procedures.
Secondary Responsibilities:
• Support basic facility tasks as needed, such as trash removal, unpacking supplies, or performing light cleaning duties.
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Women’s Studies, Psychology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of two years of experience in a shelter or residential care facility.
• Knowledge of domestic violence, trauma-informed care, and the unique challenges faced by survivors. •
Strong interpersonal, assessment, and communication skills (both written and oral).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and other basic computer tools.
• Ability to manage sensitive and confidential issues with professionalism.
• Skilled in maintaining accurate and confidential client records.
• Excellent time management and multi-tasking abilities.
• Ability to handle crisis situations and adapt to changing priorities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Experience working with diverse populations, with an understanding of cultural, ethnic, and racial differences.
• Ability to engage with changing organizational needs and provide support in a dynamic environment.
Background Check & Drug Testing Requirements: Employment at My Sister’s Place is contingent upon the successful completion of background checks, including FBI and MPD background checks, TB testing, and a drug test. Additionally, due to grant requirements, employees must maintain updated background checks and screenings as required for their position throughout their employment.
What We’re Looking For
At MSP, we are committed to our core values, which guide our every action and decision. We’re hiring someone who shares our dedication to these values and embodies them in their work:
· Demonstrate Professionalism, Integrity, and Excellence: You approach your role with the highest level of professionalism and ethical conduct. You should consistently uphold integrity, demonstrate excellence in your work, and adhere to the highest standards of professionalism.
· Support Wellness and Self-care: You understand the importance of self-care and wellness, both for yourself and for the clients we serve. You should promote and model self-care practices and encourage clients to prioritize their well-being.
· Provide Person-centered and Trauma-informed Services: We value a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to service delivery. The right candidate should be skilled in empathetic and client-focused interactions, recognizing the unique needs and experiences of each individual.
· Foster an Environment of Trust, Transparency, and Respect: Building trust and maintaining transparency and respect in all interactions is paramount to our organization. We are looking for someone who can create a safe and respectful environment for clients and colleagues alike.
· Deliver Services Intentionally and Passionately: We seek someone who is passionate about helping others and who approaches their role with intentionality. You should be dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of our clients.
My Sister’s Place is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based upon race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.