What are the responsibilities and job description for the Peer Support Specialist position at First Resources Corp?
Job title: Peer Support Specialist
Location: Mount Pleasant, IA
Program Area: Drop-In Services / Community-Based Supports
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00am–4:30pm; evening and weekend hours as needed
Position Overview
We are excited to share an opportunity for a Peer Support Specialist (PSS). This role is ideal for someone with lived experience who is passionate about recovery, wellness, and walking alongside others in their mental health and/or substance use recovery journey. Peer Support Specialists use shared experience, relationship-building, and recovery principles to support participants in achieving personal goals, building community, and strengthening self-directed wellness.
Key Responsibilities
Participant Support & Recovery Services
- Build supportive, recovery-focused relationships with participants
- Support individuals in identifying strengths, goals, and barriers
- Assist with developing and using Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAP)
- Lead and co-facilitate recovery-based groups and conversations
- Model effective coping skills, problem-solving, and self-advocacy
- Support participants in building social skills and natural and structured supports
- Connect participants to community and personal resources
- Provide one-on-one peer support services in both center-based and community settings, as appropriate
Program & Team Support
- Implement and support recovery-oriented groups and daily activities
- Support peer-led and self-help group participation
- Collaborate and communicate with team members
- Keep the Program Coordinator informed of participant needs and program operations
- Participate in team meetings, training, and ongoing professional development
- Promote stigma reduction and recovery-oriented practices
Daily Operations & Environment
- Assist with meal preparation, grocery shopping, and kitchen-related activities alongside participants
- Assist with maintaining a clean, welcoming, and organized environment
- Participate in community outreach, engagement, and networking activities
- Support basic planning and organization of daily center activities
Professional Responsibilities
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Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries at all times
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Provide transportation to/from the Drop-In Center and related activities as needed
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Work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings or weekends as needed
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Perform other related duties as assigned
Qualifications & Requirements:
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Must be at least 18 years of age
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Must have lived experience with a mental health and/or substance use disorder and be living well in recovery (as self-defined)
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Must be willing to obtain Peer Support Specialist/Peer Recovery Coach certification within 6 months of hire
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Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
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Willingness to work a flexible schedule
Why Consider This Role? Peer Support Specialists play a critical role in creating hope, empowerment, and connection. This position allows you to make a meaningful impact by using lived experience to support recovery, build community, and walk alongside others in their wellness journey.