What are the responsibilities and job description for the Housing Peer Support Specialist position at Breakthrough Episopal Social Services?
Job description:
The mission of Breakthrough | Episcopal Social Services is to create an inclusive and supportive community where individuals impacted by poverty or mental illness can discover opportunities, foster resilience, and improve their quality of life.
SCOPE OF POSITION
The Peer Support Specialist provides non-clinical, peer-based support to individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Drawing from lived experience, the Peer Support Specialist supports clients navigate housing services, reduce barriers to stability, and promote self-advocacy. This position plays a vital role in fostering engagement, building trust, and supporting clients in achieving housing, economic stability, and mental wellness goals. The Peer Support Specialist will collaborate with Housing Advocates and community partners to ensure coordinated, person centered and trauma-informed care.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1. Build Trusting, Supportive Relationships.
a. Utilize lived experience to establish rapport and provide empathetic, non-judgmental support to clients.
b. Encourage self-advocacy and empower participants to take steps toward self-sufficiency and stability.
c. Assist participants in identifying personal goals related to housing, employment, education, and wellness.
2. Navigation of Housing and Supportive Services.
a. Support participants in navigating housing-related resources, completing applications, and accessing services to reduce housing barriers.
b. Accompany participants to appointments, including housing viewings, benefits meetings, and court appearances, to provide advocacy and emotional support.
c. Educate participants on tenant rights and responsibilities, and strategies for maintaining housing stability.
3. Facilitate Access to Community Resources and Services.
a. Connect participants to community resources such as mental health programs, substance use treatment, employment services, food and utility assistance, transportation, and educational opportunities.
b. Obtain signed release of information forms and coordinate with agency staff and external service providers to ensure a collaborative approach to care.
c. Assist clients with building a support network and access to opportunities for personal growth
4. Provide Peer-Led Support and Education.
a. Facilitate peer-led support and education focused on life skills, financial literacy, self-care, and wellness.
b. Share personal experiences to provide hope and encouragement, while maintaining professional boundaries.
c. Promote harm reduction and trauma-informed care and person-first approaches.
5. Maintain Documentation and Program Compliance.
a. Document all client interactions, assessments, and progress notes in a timely and accurate manner.
b. Ensure documentation is compliant with organizational policies, regulatory requirements, and funding guidelines.
c. Assist with program reporting and evaluation by tracking client outcomes and progress toward goals.
6. Support Clients in Crisis and Conflict.
a. Respond to participants in crisis by offering emotional support, de-escalation strategies, and referrals to emergency services.
b. Mediate conflicts between participants and landlords, service providers, or others as needed to help maintain housing stability.
c. Model and teach effective problem-solving and coping strategies.
7. Professional Development and Organizational Engagement.
a. Attend workshops, training sessions, and conferences to stay informed on best practices in peer support, social services, and behavioral health.
b. Actively contribute to a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, empowerment, and mutual respect.
c. Act as a role model for recovery, resilience, and empowerment, demonstrating the value of lived experience in social service work.
EOE
Pay: $11.00 - $14.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
Salary : $11 - $14