The Peer Support Specialist for Opioid Overdose Prevention plays a crucial role in providing support, education, and outreach to LGBTQ+ and LatinX individuals at risk of opioid overdose. This position focuses on leveraging personal lived experiences to connect with and assist individuals in navigating the complexities of opioid use disorder, harm reduction, access to treatment, and overdose prevention. The Peer Support Specialist collaborates with community organizations, healthcare providers, and local agencies to promote awareness and deliver effective interventions.
Responsibilities:
Peer Support and Counseling:
Utilize personal lived experiences to connect with individuals struggling with opioid use disorder.
Provide empathetic and non-judgmental support to foster a sense of understanding and trust.
Share recovery strategies, coping mechanisms, and resources for managing opioid addiction.
Outreach and Education:
Conduct community outreach to raise awareness about opioid overdose prevention and harm reduction.
Deliver educational sessions and workshops on recognizing the signs of overdose and administering naloxone.
Distribute educational materials and resources to target populations.
Naloxone Distribution and Training:
Facilitate training sessions on the proper administration of naloxone to individuals, community groups, and first responders.
Collaborate with local health agencies to distribute naloxone kits to at-risk populations.
Maintain accurate records of naloxone distribution and follow-up with recipients for additional support.

Advocacy and Peer Networking:
Advocate for the needs of individuals with opioid use disorder within the community and healthcare systems.
Establish and maintain a network of peer support contacts, both formal and informal, to enhance the support system for individuals in recovery.
Participate in local and regional meetings, conferences, and events related to opioid overdose prevention and harm reduction.
Data Collection and Reporting:
Keep detailed records of interactions, interventions, and outcomes for reporting and program evaluation.
Collaborate with supervisors and relevant stakeholders to analyze data and identify areas for improvement.
Qualifications:
Personal lived experience with opioid use disorder and successful recovery.
NC Peer Support Specialist Certification
Fluency in Spanish and English
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Knowledge of, and use of, harm reduction principles and strategies.
Familiarity with local resources and services for individuals with substance use disorders.
Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, community organizations, and law enforcement.
Driver’s License, Dependable Transportation, and Auto Insurance are required.
Women, BIPOC Individuals, and members of the LGBT+ community are strongly encouraged to apply!
Working Conditions:
This role may involve flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to reach target populations effectively.
Travel within the community for outreach and training activities.
Note:
This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with it. The organization reserves the right to modify the duties and responsibilities of the position.