Peer Advocate, LifeSpring (Transitional Youth Housing) Program

North County Lifeline•Vista, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Lifeline Services is hiring a Peer Advocate to support our growing team. The Peer Advocate provides supportive services to youth and youth adults (YYA) who are experiencing homelessness or who are at risk of homelessness. Assures that the Drop in Center is functioning from a housing first model. The Peer Advocate makes sure that the YYA's needs and wants are being heard and addressed, that YYA's are getting assistance in obtaining safe, stable, inclusive housing that supports independence and permanent connection. This is a lived experience role that will help our team to create a warm and welcoming environment for the young people that we serve. We're looking for a candidate with strong skills in engagement, crisis intervention, case management, interviewing, rapport building, assessment, goal setting, and youth participation and development.

Requirements

Applicant must have lived experience and have knowledge on how to navigate systems.
Possess a good understanding of the homeless issue here in San Diego, human development, mental health, and substance use and how that impacts daily functioning.
Must have reliable transportation and be willing to work evenings as necessary to meet YYA's needs.
Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation with a good driving record.
Willing to use own, properly insured, reliable vehicle for the job (mileage reimbursed).
Employment subject to clearances, including background finger printing checks, driving record, tuberculosis testing, and drug testing.

Nice To Haves

BA preferred or enrolled in college courses.

Responsibilities

Create a safe, welcoming and supportive environment to engage participants.
Provide basic needs assistance (food, water, new clothing, hygiene products, access to shower and do laundry, etc.)
Create, organize and facilitate the various groups and outings.
Connect participants to resources based on their needs.
Initiate and organize outreach efforts
Maintain the drop-in center (cleanliness, ensure rules are being followed, food orders and basic needs inventory)
Completes other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Generous paid vacation
Paid sick time (6 days)
Paid holidays (14 days)
100% employer paid medical, dental, vision, chiropractic and acupuncture coverage
100% employer paid life insurance
Health and wellness programs
Employee Assistance program
Professional development assistance
Great employee incentive awards program
Training and education assistance
Matched 403b retirement plan
Flexible Spending Account
Paid supervision hours (clinical positions)