YHDP Peer Support Specialist

Job Title: YHDP Peer Support Specialist
Department: Housing Services
Program: Housing Stability
Reports To: YHDP Housing Stability Coordinator
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt/Full Time – 30 Hours per Week
COVID-19 Vaccine Required but subject to recognized exemptions
 
Position Summary
The Youth Peer Support Specialist provides direct outreach and pre-screening to potential individuals interested in enrolling in the YHDP Housing Stability Program. Qualified candidate must possess a clear understanding of the service delivery system and the resources available for people experiencing homelessness and their families. Individual will provide peer support, mentoring, and coaching to program participants to help them access and navigate community resources. This individual will also serve as a quality assurance representative to households accessing funds and participate as a member of the strengths based Case Management team.
 
Essential Duties & Responsibilities (inclusive but not exhaustive):
Identify locations frequented by potential referrals.
Provide direct outreach to people experiencing homelessness and their families in their naturally occurring environments (i.e. home visits and street outreach).
Engage and build rapport with target population.
Provide identification of and pre-screening for eligibility of potential applicants.
Coordinate initial screening and assessment with Case Management team.
Participate in community outreach activities.
Provide client access to services and community resources as needed.
Provide peer support, mentoring, and coaching to program participants through assistance in navigating and accessing mainstream resources.
Accompany clients to appointments, when appropriate.
Provide peer support and mentoring in securing permanent housing.
Facilitate discussion and training in peer groups, as determined by the Case Management team.
Monitor and document participation, progress, referrals, and services provided to participant.
Assist Case Management team in preparing discharge plans and follow-up contact with program participants.
Complete paperwork and data reports as requested by the Program Manager.
Attend agency, community, and supervisory meetings, as needed.
Maintain working relationships with community agencies to provide comprehensive services to participants.
Maintain working relationships with organizations serving program target population.
Qualifications:
Education
Required: High School Diploma or GED.
Required: Certification as a Peer Specialist or Mentor; will also accept LCDC or equivalent qualification OR willingness to complete certification within 1 year of hire date.
Experience
Knowledge and experience with the 12-step program for substance abuse or equivalent model.
Must be able to comply with complex governmental regulations, policies and procedures and demonstrate thorough document compliance efforts and activities.
Computer Skills
Proficient with data management and information systems and have basic knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Other Requirements
Valid driver’s license, ability to drive, and have reliable transportation.
Work Schedule
Normal work and days assigned based on a 30 hours work week.
Salary/Benefits:
Base Salary Range: $36,000-$45,000.
Employer paid health, dental, vision, life, short term disability, and long term disability insurance for employees.
13 Paid Holidays per year.
20 days of accrued PTO in year one with increases up to 31 days per year.
Retirement plan with employer match.
Discounted Rates on Gold’s Gym and Legal Shield memberships.
Mileage Reimbursement.
Monthly Phone Stipend.
Monthly Paid Parking for employees who office from Downtown Location.
 
Caritas of Austin is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.