An essential piece of serving the people who come into the shelter at Stepping Stones are the advocates. Advocates are on site every single day of the week, whether it’s a regular business day, a weekend, or even a holiday. AND advocates answer the helpline 24/7!
But what does a typical day at shelter look like?
6 AM
Each day at the shelter begins with an advocate bringing the residents together for morning meeting. This meeting sets the tone for the day with residents reading a 12-step inspired meditation, discussing needs and schedules for the day, and ending with individual affirmations.
9 AM
After making sure the residents have what they need for the day, the advocates can be found taking on many roles. One person may be answering a crisis call from the helpline while another is meeting with a resident to go through their individualized service plan. Some days, the advocates assist residents or members of the community with filing Orders of Protection, scheduling appointments, and other one-on-one support like safety planning. Advocates also regularly attend court hearings. Often times an advocate is simply needed for a one-on-one conversation to support a resident through their challenges or celebrate with them in their triumphs.
1 PM
Almost every day, advocates lead educational support group. Groups cover topics such as Childhood Trauma, Domestic Violence, Codependency, and the 12-Steps. Each of these sessions help adults grow in understanding of the trauma and challenges they experience in their lives and empower them to do the hard work to address things in their lives that they have the power to control.
3 PM
Advocates support the adults by caring for children in the shelter when they need to attend groups or other important meetings. Advocates also spend time with these children individually throughout the week to help foster loving, stable relationships in their lives.
6PM
Families often return to shelter around dinner time when they enjoy meals together, play with their children, and rest. Mentor advocates who live on site are available for emergencies and provide support for families in the evening hours.
Every day is an adventure for our advocates, and we are extremely grateful for the various positions they assume each day to support our mission.
DID YOU KNOW?
Stepping Stones Advocates are available day and night on our 24/7/365 Helpline. Call 928-445-HOPE (4673) to speak to someone if you need safety and support.
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