Peer Specialist (outreach workers)

$31,500 - $31,500/Yr

PRAXIS Housing Initiatives - New York, NY

Full-time - Entry Level

New York, NY

Social Assistance

About the position

The Peer Specialist (outreach workers) will canvas a 10 block radius of the assigned Praxis Housing Shelter to intervene and address any public nuisance complaints with identified homeless persons assigned to the shelter. The role involves discouraging loitering and panhandling by homeless individuals in the area. The Peer Specialist will contact DHS Mobile outreach units to report homeless persons in need of placement, medical, and mental health assistance. They will dispense prepared meals onsite to residents of the shelter, keep records of meals handed out, and ensure cleanliness of food containers, refrigeration, and microwave ovens, as well as maintain common areas as needed. The Peer Specialist will meet with the case management team and provide input when necessary, engage clients assigned to the shelter, and provide guidance and advice as needed. They will also engage with clients during meal times and conduct outreach door-to-door to encourage and promote onsite supportive groups and recreational activities. The role promotes a smoke-free and drug-free environment and may require escorting and assisting clients to HRA, Social Security Administration, and housing interviews as needed. Additionally, the Peer Specialist will attend community resident meetings as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Canvas a 10 block radius of assigned Praxis Housing Shelter.
• Intervene and address public nuisance complaints with identified homeless persons.
• Discourage loitering and panhandling in the area.
• Contact DHS Mobile outreach units for homeless persons needing assistance.
• Dispense prepared meals onsite to shelter residents and keep records.
• Maintain cleanliness of food containers, refrigeration, and common areas.
• Meet with case management team and provide input as needed.
• Engage clients and provide guidance and advice.
• Promote onsite supportive groups and recreational activities.
• Escort and assist clients to necessary appointments.
• Attend community resident meetings as assigned.

Requirements

• H.S. diploma/GED and Certified Peer Specialist.
• Knowledge of DHS rules and regulations.
• Ability to maintain accurate and timely documentation.
• Basic computer literacy required.

Nice-to-haves

• Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred.
• 2-3 years of outreach work or peer educator experience.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental and Vision
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Vacation time
• Sick Time
• 403B retirement plan
• Transit check program