Responsibilities/Summary:
The Peer Support Specialist will use lived experience to engage with individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use disorders (SUD), and serious mental illness (SMI). They will foster trusting relationships through empathy and shared understanding, providing case management support and connecting clients to essential services. The Peer Support Specialist will assist clients in accessing housing, applying for benefits, and securing identification documents, while also collaborating with housing providers, peer support services, and other agencies. This role involves street outreach, ongoing support, and ensuring clients’ recovery progress is documented and supported.
Competencies:
- Strong communication and active listening skills
- Ability to relate to clients through shared lived experiences
- Trauma-informed, peer-centered approach
- Flexibility, adaptability, and problem-solving skills
- Basic proficiency with client management databases and Microsoft Office
Essential Functions:
- Identifying, engaging, and building trusting relationships with individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness through direct street outreach
- Administering counterfactual surveys monthly
- Utilizing the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) to ensure connection to local housing resources
- Providing back-up to the Peer Support Specialist to support pilot participants as needed
- Assist clients with accessing services, including housing, Medicaid, and identification documents
- Provide emotional support and act as a role model for recovery
- Collaborate with housing providers and agencies to facilitate placements and support transitions
- Document client interactions and maintain accurate records in Civitas database
- Provide transportation to critical appointments for clients
Required Education and Experience:
- Lived experience of homelessness, SUD, or SMI
- Experience in peer support or related roles
- Certification as a Peer Support Specialist (or willingness to obtain)
- Familiarity with recovery programs, housing systems, and social services
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to connect with diverse population
Salary and Benefits:
- $19-24 per hour
- 403(b) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Mileage reimbursement
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Vision insurance
Working Environment:
This role involves both office work and outdoor street outreach in various weather conditions. Occasional travel may be required for meetings or transporting clients to appointments.
To Apply: Email resume to Allie Card at acard@healing-transitions.org