What are the responsibilities and job description for the Peer Support Specialist, SSVF position at ACCESS and Careers?
Position Summary
The Peer Support Specialist – Support Services for Veteran and Families (SSVF) works directly with Veterans and their families in applying to receive services through ACCESS with short-term and long-term solutions. This position works collaboratively with a multi-disciplinary team that assists participants in navigating through complex resources and processes to obtain/sustain housing. A Peer Support Specialist -SSVF works to engage the participant in the spheres of being independent by working through barriers that may keep them from achieving their own definition of self-sufficiency. This position requires frequent travel between offices, participants’ homes, and outreach activities.
Position Duties & Responsibilities
- Identify unsheltered homeless persons through direct outreach activities and through reports/referrals from shelters, police, churches, social service providers and others.
- Conduct regular sessions with participants to encourage positive adjustment out of homelessness and into housing.
- Provide support through positive social interactions with participants in one-on-one settings, in order to build mutual trust and positive relationships.
- Coach participants and families about self-care, in addition to prevention techniques to avoid falling back into homelessness.
- Serve as an advocate for Veterans and their families to help meet their housing goals.
- Serve as a team member for the program working in tandem with Community Support Specialist – SSVF members. This includes assisting participants with community resources as well as developing and providing regular feedback as well as necessary case notes for participant files.
- Monitor participants’ progress and keep track of his or her status. Assist in preventing relapse back into homelessness by providing a reliable support system.
- Make referrals to appropriate community resources based on the needs/goals of the participant.
- Participate in appropriate workshops, trainings, outreach activities, and meetings as directed.
- Maintain complete participant records, daily activity logs, mileage logs, and other reports as directed.
- Take appropriate action to deal with any homeless emergency situations, following ACCESS guidelines and procedures.
- Maintain confidentiality of all program participants.
- Work with the Program Supervisor, Manager, and Director in identifying outreach opportunities and materials.
- Flexible to work occasional weekend community event.
- Work nights or weekends when severe weather activations occur.
- Fill in when needed to lead the operations of the severe weather shelter.
- Belief in ACCESS’ mission to help provide food, warmth, and shelter.
- Must have a minimum of 1 year’s direct client contact and/or customer service experience.
- Must be certified in Peer Mentorship and complete crisis intervention training, within one year of employment.
- Must have good interpersonal, written communication, and oral communication skills.
- Must be proficient with computers and use of basic programs such as Microsoft Office.
- Project a positive image of ACCESS, recognizing opportunities to enhance community relations.
- Ability to interact effectively with a variety of individuals and groups from varying educational, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds to include listening, sensitivity to the other's feelings, needs, point of view, tact and courtesy in expressing opinions or ideas.
- Ability to work flexible hours, and at times in poor weather. Willingness and ability to adjust to changing conditions or priorities.
- A valid Oregon driver’s license with a record that is acceptable under ACCESS’ insurance policies.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous military experience with honorable discharge.
Salary : $20 - $26