Peer Support Counselor (Outreach Department)

SELF•Philadelphia, PA

About The Position

The Peer Outreach Support Counselor is responsible for engaging homeless persons, determining needs, offering relevant services, and delivering follow-up. Worker will offer support to the City of Philadelphia Outreach Teams, Outreach Supervisor and Outreach Coordinator in responding to calls from individuals, businesses, agencies, and police regarding homeless persons on the street in Philadelphia.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED equivalent with a combination of acceptable training and experience in human services, including but not limited to homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health.
Must be able to frequently stand, walk, sit, bend, and lift supplies.
Must be able to visually observe, hear, understand, and interpret participant behavior.
Must be able to provide constructive feedback to the shift leader or designee in order to improve services.
Criminal background and clearance will be required.
Must be well organized, detail-oriented, task-driven, and able to work independently and set daily priorities.
Must possess strong verbal and written communication skills and be willing to assist whenever needed.
Must have a valid driver’s license and motor vehicle record.

Responsibilities

Responsible for engaging potential clients at various locations, including on the street, and performing assessments and/recording client contact information in a funder-required database.
Responsible for evaluating and communicating concerns that may interfere with providing Peer Outreach Support, conducting services in a timely manner in accordance with program and organizational guidelines.
Responsible for engaging clients at various locations, including on the street, and recording relevant information (i.e., full name, SS# DOB, etc.)
Responsible for transporting clients to and from shelters, recovery houses, clinics, detoxification centers, DPA offices, etc.
Responsible for assisting clients in finding shelter placement and referring clients to resources that provide showers, meals, clothing, and health examinations.
Responsible for seeing new clients twice a month and previous clients once a month, and updating information in the funder-required database.
Responsible for referring clients to outpatient treatment facilities, making referrals to DPW, Social Security Administration, PHA, OSHA, etc. in accordance with the medical insurance guidelines.
Responsible for reporting vehicle maintenance needs to supervisors and maintaining daily travel log activity.
Participates in general staff meetings, program and departmental meetings, and trainings as directed and needed.
Perform related work as required.