What are the responsibilities and job description for the Peer Advocate (Youth Mentor) position at Youth Rising?
Peer Advocate (Peer Mentor) – Youth Rising Drop-In Center (Hobbs, NM)
Part-Time | $21–$24/hr DOE | Potential for Full-Time Growth
Do you love connecting with young people? Do you have a story, skill, or hobby you’re passionate about sharing — whether it’s art, gaming, sports, music, or just being a positive voice in someone’s day?
Youth Rising is looking for an energetic, reliable, and compassionate Peer Advocate to join our Hobbs Drop-In team.
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys engaging middle school, high school, and young adult youth (ages 11–21), and who has personal or professional experience overcoming challenges such as mental health struggles, foster care, homelessness, or involvement with youth systems. You’ll play a key role in building a safe, welcoming environment where youth feel seen, supported, and inspired.
Schedule:
- Typical hours: 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM, Monday through Friday
- Occasional Saturday events or outreach activities in the future
- Part-time with growth potential toward full-time and Peer Support Certification
Key Responsibilities
- Engage & Mentor: Build positive, supportive relationships with youth in a casual drop-in setting. Encourage life skills, leadership, and healthy coping strategies.
- Create & Lead Activities: Plan or assist with daily activities, workshops, and group discussions that promote wellness, belonging, and creativity.
- Support Daily Operations: Help maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment at the drop-in center.
- Outreach & Connection: Encourage youth participation, help spread awareness of Youth Rising programs, and build trust in the community.
- Team Collaboration: Work closely with the Regional Program Director and other staff to coordinate programming and ensure smooth operations.
- Professional Growth: Participate in ongoing training and development opportunities, including working toward Certified Peer Support Specialist or Prevention Specialist credentials.
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, psychology, or a related field preferred — but equivalent experience and passion are highly valued.
- Experience: 1–2 years working or volunteering with youth in schools, community programs, or similar environments.
- Lived Experience: Individuals with personal experience in foster care, mental health recovery, juvenile justice, or homelessness are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Skills:
- Friendly, outgoing, and comfortable leading or joining in group activities
- Excellent communication and listening skills
- Dependable and professional, with a positive attitude
- Basic computer and recordkeeping skills (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, etc.)
- Preferred Certifications: Peer Support or Prevention Specialist, CPR/First Aid (or willingness to complete within 90 days)
- Bilingual (Spanish/English) highly desirable
Why Join Youth Rising?
Youth Rising is a national nonprofit helping young people overcome barriers and build strong futures. Our drop-in centers provide a safe, supportive space for youth to connect, grow, and discover new possibilities. This role offers hands-on experience, mentorship, and real growth opportunities for someone passionate about youth empowerment.
HOW TO APPLY: Please apply through really. No phone calls or emails. Please submit a resume and cover letter through really, and we will review and respond if we plan to schedule an interview. Thank you!
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $21.00 - $24.00 per hour
Expected hours: 15 – 25 per week
Education:
- Bachelor's (Preferred)
Experience:
- Working with youth: 2 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $21 - $24