Student - REACH Crisis Services Client Advocate (Work-Study Only)

Southern New Hampshire University is a team of innovators. World changers. Individuals who believe in progress with purpose. Since 1932, our people-centered strategy has defined us — and helped us grow a team that now serves over 180,000 learners worldwide.

Our mission to transform lives is made possible by talented people who bring diverse industry experience, backgrounds and skills to the university. And today, we're ready to expand our reach. All we need is you.

The opportunity

Southern New Hampshire University is seeking a student employee to fill the role of Client Advocate for our partner organization, REACH Crisis Services, in Manchester, NH. Client advocates at REACH Crisis Services provide direct services to victims of domestic and sexual violence, stalking and human trafficking through support, information, resource and referral, and personal advocacy based on the empowerment model. Students can provide support in conjunction with staff in the office from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Job Responsibilities

• Respond to clients in crisis.  Identify problems, explore options, and support clients in making their own decisions.
• Offer emotional support, assistance, advocacy, referral information, and follow-up as needed.
• Using the Housing Access model, assist families affected by domestic violence and sexual assault in securing safe, permanent housing. Identify housing resources in REACH's service areas.
• Help families address collateral needs related to finding safe, permanent housing,
• Support families in setting financial goals and creating a financial plan to achieve permanent housing.
• Support internal housing programs, including Housing Access, shelter, and rapid rehousing initiatives, to promote long-term housing sustainability for residents.
• Work with residents at the shelter (who are entering into RRH) and in rapid rehousing housing scattered site units.
• Work with residents at the shelter and in rapid rehousing housing scattered site units.
• Review needs assessments and individual service plans for all residents and track progress.
• Offer emotional support, assistance, advocacy, and referral to residents as needed.
• Support families in completing housing applications for permanent housing.
• Assist those who secure permanent housing to sign up for utility services.
• Document all direct service activities.  Record client statistical data, including referrals, if any, and maintain related agency documentation.
• Respect the confidentiality and privacy of those we serve by maintaining confidentiality.
• Collaborate with other staff to enhance direct service delivery as assigned. 
• Attend outreach and tabling events as needed.
• Promote the agency’s mission. 
• Be in the office on an agreed upon commitment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Current enrollment in classes as part of a SNHU degree program
• Work study part of financial aid package
• Students with work study may be prioritized
• Reliable transportation and valid driver's license
• Must be 18 years old or older. Successful completion of the Crisis Intervention Advocacy training (minimum 30 hours).
• Ability to intervene appropriately in crisis situations and maintain confidentiality.

Learning Outcomes (NACE Competencies)

Communication, team building, time management, critical thinking, professionalism, ability to remain calm in a busy environment, ability to use active listening.

Work Schedule

Flexible scheduling, Office is open 8:30am to 5pm

We believe real innovation comes from inclusion - where different experiences, perspectives and talents are celebrated. So if you're wondering whether SNHU is right for you, take the leap and apply. You might be just the person we're looking for.

Compensation

The hourly pay range for this position is $13.00 - $15.00. Actual offer will be based on skills, qualifications, experience and internal equity, in addition to relevant business considerations.