Peer Counselor I- FT

HOPE ENTERPRISES•Williamsport, PA

About The Position

A WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor I is a paraprofessional support person who gives basic breastfeeding information and encouragement to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The essential functions of this position consist of the ability to perform basic math functions, write, read and comprehend what is read. Expressive and receptive language skills are also required in the execution of the responsibilities below. SPECIFIC DUTIES: Attend breastfeeding training classes. Counsels WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers at the WIC clinic, hospital, home, or by telephone contacts at scheduled intervals. Receives a caseload of WIC clients and makes routine periodic contacts with all clients assigned. Promotes breastfeeding with pregnant women and gives basic breastfeeding information and support to new mothers, including benefits of breastfeeding, overcoming common barriers, and getting a good start with breastfeeding. They also help mothers prevent and handle common breastfeeding concerns. Is available outside usual working hours to new mothers who are having breastfeeding problems. Respects each client by keeping her information strictly confidential. Keeps accurate records of all contacts made with WIC clients. Refers mothers, according to clinic-established protocols, to the WIC Nutritionist or Breastfeeding Coordinator, lactation consultant, the mother’s physician or nurse, public health programs in the community, and social service agencies. Attends and assists with prenatal classes and breastfeeding conferences/workshops as appropriate. Attends regular staff meetings and breastfeeding conferences/workshops as appropriate. Reads assigned books and materials on breastfeeding that are provided by the supervisor. May assist WIC staff in promoting breastfeeding peer counseling through special projects and duties as assigned. TRAINING: Attends a series of breastfeeding classes (nursing babies are welcomed). Receives one-on-one orientation training with peer counselor supervisor in helping mother’s breastfeed. Attends peer counselor meetings and in-services as directed.

Requirements

Has breastfed at least one baby for at least 6 months (does not have to be currently breastfeeding).
Demonstrates basic communication skills and an ability to utilize counseling techniques.
Demonstrates enthusiasm about breastfeeding and desires to help other mothers.
Able to work full-time, 35-40 hours a week.
Has a telephone and is willing to make phone calls from home.
Has reliable transportation.
Comfortable with leading small groups such as a support group setting, assisting in peer meetings, hospital lactation meetings, and represents WIC in the community and with partner organizations.

Responsibilities

Attend breastfeeding training classes.
Counsels WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers at the WIC clinic, hospital, home, or by telephone contacts at scheduled intervals.
Receives a caseload of WIC clients and makes routine periodic contacts with all clients assigned.
Promotes breastfeeding with pregnant women and gives basic breastfeeding information and support to new mothers, including benefits of breastfeeding, overcoming common barriers, and getting a good start with breastfeeding.
Helps mothers prevent and handle common breastfeeding concerns.
Is available outside usual working hours to new mothers who are having breastfeeding problems.
Respects each client by keeping her information strictly confidential.
Keeps accurate records of all contacts made with WIC clients.
Refers mothers, according to clinic-established protocols, to the WIC Nutritionist or Breastfeeding Coordinator, lactation consultant, the mother’s physician or nurse, public health programs in the community, and social service agencies.
Attends and assists with prenatal classes and breastfeeding conferences/workshops as appropriate.
Attends regular staff meetings and breastfeeding conferences/workshops as appropriate.
Reads assigned books and materials on breastfeeding that are provided by the supervisor.
May assist WIC staff in promoting breastfeeding peer counseling through special projects and duties as assigned.