Purpose:  

 This is a peer community based support role for those desiring support as they seek a life free from drug or alcohol dependence OR if they are not ready to cease using these but want a safe and positive space to connect with support and health resources.  The Nexus program is a component of GreenTree Peer Support Program in Winston-Salem. Role objectives include:

1. To provide genuine, non-judgmental welcome to all comers in a safe, trauma-sensitive social setting

2. To provide authentic peer to peer support that affirms a person and builds a hopeful foundation for next steps

3. To provide recovery education and peer group support

4. To link people to other resources they may need regarding harm reduction services, recovery housing, mental health care, addiction treatment, etc.

5. To offer support with finding meaningful employment, referring to and coordinating with GreenTree's Peer Employment Support lead

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate personal value of recovery potential for all people with mental health or substance use challenges

• Respect efforts of all who are support seekers whether they choose abstinence, harm reduction, or medication assisted life recovery

• Co-facilitate Nexus recovery education and support groups such as Seeking Safety, SMART Recovery (training and resources provided) as well as Thinking for a Change

• Assist with weekly community outreach setups, engaging people in underserved communities to facilitate support, resource linkage

• Participate in Forsyth County coalitions and partnerships meaningfully to result in more seamless resource or treatment access for our peer participants

• Be willing to transport individuals to support and advocate as they access other agencies

• Assist those re-entering community life after incarceration, liaising with judicial system contacts as is helpful to benefit individuals according to their preferences

• Provide documentation and reporting according to our data collection practices

• Other duties as may be assigned by supervisors

Qualifications for this position:

• Personal history of substance use recovery

• Working understanding of trauma-sensitive support, theory, principles, and practices

• Ability to manage time and complete tasks accordingly with limited direct supervision

• Good oral and written communication skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills including active and reflective listening while not judging a person’s character

• Self-motivation and initiative to work independently as well as within a team

• Excellent team player, enjoying being part of a responsive, creative team

• Capable with software applications including word processing and data forms

• Current NC Certified Peer Support Specialist or the commitment to obtain certification within 4 months

• Valid NC driver’s license

• College level study required that equips for researching resources and professional communication

• Basic knowledge of local community support services/resources, including treatment providers and recovery housing programs

• Must live in or very near Forsyth County to gain familiarity with local resources

• Personal experience with incarceration and transition into community life a plus but not required