Field Based Peer Specialist - Substance Abuse Service Center

Bowery Residents' Committee•New York, NY

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Fred Cooper Substance Abuse Service Center (SASC), which is licensed by the NYS Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services and funded by Medicaid and the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, serves people with alcohol and substance abuse problems who are homeless or marginally housed. SASC also has services specifically designed for clients who are dually diagnosed with mental illness and substance abuse. One of a number of BRC's low-threshold programs, SASC provides the setting and support necessary for severely dysfunctional chronic alcoholics and other substance abusers with poor treatment histories to have a reasonable chance of attaining long-term sobriety and stability in their lives. BRC staff help New Yorkers experiencing homelessness reclaim their lives by providing a hand up, offering opportunities for health and self-sufficiency, and restoring hope and dignity. Each and every BRC staff member makes heroic contributions to our city, providing vital services in times of crisis and need. Through our commitment to employee wellbeing and development, BRC provides a workplace where staff can achieve their goals, make a difference with our clients, and grow personally and professionally.

Requirements

H.S. diploma/ GED
Certified Peer Specialist (CRPA) Certificate
Knowledge of OASAS rules and regulations
Be able to maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation.
Basic computer literacy required.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual (Spanish/ English) preferred.
Vaccination preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Participate in a two-person team with the Field Based Social Work Supervisor.
Work collaboratively with shelter staff to address the needs of clients with substance use disorders in the shelter system.
Meets with clients in assigned shelter(s).
Educates all clients on NARCAN, Harm reduction, and safe use practices.
Engages each client assigned to the team with the social worker and provide guidance and advice as needed.
Spends time with clients during mealtimes and recreation time to engage around wellbeing and offer peer support.
Escort and assist clients in going to SUD service providers (inclusive of harm reduction providers).
Attends community meetings as assigned.
Collects data and writes progress notes as appropriate of services and referrals provided.
Reports to the Field Based Social Worker.
Builds rapport with shelter staff.
Provide emergency first aid/CPR assistance when needed.
Related duties as assigned.

Benefits

Health insurance
Paid sick time
Competitive health and dental plans, with coverage is available for your spouse, domestic partner, and dependents.
A minimum of 3 weeks paid vacation
12 paid holidays
Additional paid sick and personal time.
A 403(b) pension plan with a matching benefit paid by BRC.
Tuition assistance
Many training opportunities for career development.
Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) are available so employees can set aside pre-tax dollars for healthcare, transit and childcare.