Title: Veterans Peer Support Specialist

A Full-time position supporting individuals during times of transition in their lives by strengthening their network of support in the community. Primary duties will be targeted outreach and intensive peer support to the homeless community in Wake County, targeting homeless individuals who may suffer with mental health and co-occurring mental health/substance use disorder. Provide support to Veterans, as he or she progresses 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 with the VSC Healing Outreach Partnership for Empowerment (HOPE) program and Projects in Assistance from Transitioning from Homelessness (PATH) program. This position will be located in Raleigh, NC.

Responsibilities:

• The Peer Support Specialist will be responsible for outreach for difficult to engage members in order to provide support and linkage to community resources.
• Conducts biopsychosocial assessments in person with clients to identify needs in key areas (e.g., housing, healthcare, employment, financial assistance, benefits, social connection, etc.).
• Makes referrals 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 a working knowledge of Network providers’ menu of services, eligibility criteria, intake process and preferences, specifically in Housing and MH/SU systems.
• Facilitates community integration and continuity of care by ensuring that the member has enduring ties to their community and support systems during critical transitional periods.
• Consults with other VSC team members in order to support the member and integrated care team’s goals in a holistic approach.
• Provides Case Management with clients to assure proper services and needs are being addressed at appropriate times per HOPE/PATH Program guidelines.
• Documents all activity in accordance with grant program guidelines and in compliance with internal policies and procedures. (Utilizing the Unite Us platform)
• Participates in all appropriate staff, supervision, and training meetings and assumes other duties as assigned by Senior Management.

Skills/Competencies:

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Self-directed, highly motivated and focused with a commitment to the mission of Veterans Services of the Carolina's and ABCCM.
• 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 mental health/substance abuse issues, skill in community resource development, be well organized, a self-starter, and able to work as a member of a team.

Qualifications:

• Must be a NC Certified Peer Support Specialist or become certified within 6 months of hire.
• Must be a Veteran
• High School Diploma or equivalency is required for this position but preference will be given to Bachelors degree
• Lived experience with 1 year in recovery from MH, SU or I/DD issues with receipt of services and supports as a consumer or family member is desired. Existing knowledge of the area resources available to Veterans preferred.