Title: Peer Support Specialist
Position Summary:
A Full-time position supporting unsheltered Veterans, and non-veterans during times of transition
in their lives by strengthening their network of support in the community. Primary duties will be outreach
and intensive peer support to the homeless community in your area of operation, targeting Veterans (HOPE)
and both veterans/civilians (PATH) who may suffer with a serious mental illness or co-occurring disorders of such
severity that the impairment substantially interferes with major life activities. Provide support to these
individuals, as they progress in recovery, independence, self-sufficiency goals or
stabilizing health (behavioral or medical), through behavioral health services, community
medical providers and local resources through a continuum of care.
RESPONSIBILITES:
- The Peer Support Specialist will be responsible for independent and community-based outreach to those deemed un-reachable and un-houseable with referring providers in order to provide support and linkage to community resources.
- Conducts Social Determinants of Health assessments in person with participants to identify their needs in key areas (e.g., mental health, substance abuse, housing, employment, financial assistance, benefits, social connection, etc.).
- Maintains accurate and detailed records of outreach efforts for HMIS and grant requirements.
- Make referrals (Utilizing the UniteUs Platform) to Network providers to address identified needs based on understanding of eligibility criteria, capacity, location, and client preference.
- Maintains a working knowledge of homeless encampments, mapping these areas.
- Maintains an active caseload of homeless veterans/individuals in various stages of achieving person-centered recovery.
- Maintain a working knowledge of Network providers’ menu of services, eligibility criteria, intake process and preferences, specifically in MH/SU systems.
- Facilitates community integration and continuity of care by ensuring that the individual receiving services has enduring ties to their community and support systems during critical transitional periods.
- Participate with multiple case management teams to support the member and integrated care team’s goals in a holistic approach.
- Participates weekly in client Case Management with the Assistant Clinical Director to assure proper services and needs are being addressed at appropriate times.
- Documents all activity in accordance with grant program guidelines and in compliance with internal policies and procedures (Utilizing UniteUs and Program Documentation).
- Participates in Outreach efforts for and represents ABCCM in a professional manner at appropriate meetings, functions and events. Coordinates across other programs and ministries within ABCCM. Participates in allappropriate staff, supervision, and training meetings.
- Ensures client files are maintained according to HOPE/PATH standards
- Assumes other duties as assigned by Senior Management.
Duties / Responsibilities:
Skills / Competencies:
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Self-directed, highly motivated and team focused with a commitment to the mission of ABCCM and serving the most vulnerable in your community.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Proven ability to perform at a high level in a fast-paced, changing environment
- Experience working with veterans.
- Must have knowledge of MH/SU challenges, skill in community resource development, be
well organized, a self-starter, and able to work as a member of a team.
Relationships / Working Environment:
Qualifications:
- Must be a NC Certified Peer Support Specialist or qualify (within 6 months of Hire). Minimum of 18 Months in Recovery.
- Must be a Veteran as defined in 38 U.S.C.§ 101(2).
- High School Diploma or equivalency is required for this position but preference will be given to BS in Human Services.