Peer Support Specialist - Veterans Program

Central City Concern • Portland, OR

77d • $23

About The Position

This position supports formerly homeless Veterans who participate in the Veterans Grant & Per Diem transitional housing program. The Peer Support Specialist will work closely with clients, case managers, as well as other service providers to coordinate services and ensure ongoing support of program participants as they work toward the program goals. The Peer Support Specialist will act to support the stability of individuals within the program, is familiar with resources for Veterans such as benefits and entitlements, alcohol and drug treatment, mental health treatment, and housing. The Peer Support Specialist can be effective working independently, as a member of a team, and as a part of a larger coalition.

Requirements

• High School, GED or demonstrated ability to read and write at a sufficient level.
• Registered with MHACBO as Certified Recovery Mentor (CRM) OR Certified Peer Support Specialist (PSS) AND registered with Traditional Health Workers Registry.
• Must not actively be on parole or probation.
• Must possess a current driver's license, pass a DMV background check and be designated an 'acceptable' driver as outlined in Central City Concern's Fleet Safety Policy.
• Knowledge of veteran specific services available in the local area.
• Ability to adhere to Central City Concern's drug-free workplace.
• Flexible work schedule required, including some evening and weekend work.
• Will be required to carry an agency cell phone for work use.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
• Physical ability to bend, stoop, kneel, squat, twist, reach, pull and lift heavy objects and able to climb stairs several times a day with no or reasonable accommodation.
• Must adhere to agency's non-discrimination policies.
• Ability to effectively interact with co-workers and clients who have diverse ethnic or cultural backgrounds.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge and skills in chemical dependency and crisis intervention.
• Skills in program planning, including the development of goals, objectives, timelines, scheduling and evaluation.
• Knowledge of de-escalation methods or ability to be trained in de-escalation methods.
• Conflict resolution skills.
• Proficient with computers.

Responsibilities

• Assist Veterans in working toward the program goals of income enhancement, seeking permanent housing, and developing self-sufficiency.
• Exemplify recovery and self-sufficiency principles in order to show by example that self-reliance in a clean and sober setting is possible and attainable.
• Work with peers on specific objectives in conjunction with their case manager and the Veteran's Individual Service Plan.
• Attend and positively participate in required team, agency, and interdisciplinary meetings.
• Coordinate and consult with other team members to keep team informed of issues and progress of each Veteran.
• Collaborate with community resource agencies to remove barriers, provide intervention and make referrals for issues facing Veterans in a variety of areas.
• Educate Veteran about employment assistance options, service/non-service connected and social security benefits, and community engagement opportunities.
• Document all peer contact at time of service.
• Provide ongoing individual support and encouragement to Veterans and give feedback regarding Quarterly Reviews Plans.
• Work with internal and VA service providers to assure coordinated and streamlined services.
• Support clients in achieving housing stability, including, but not limited to assistance with moving in, obtaining linens, dishes, food boxes, and clothing.
• Support clients in establishing community integration, including, but not limited to accessing recovery meetings, faith-based support, clean and sober recreation, etc., in their neighborhoods.
• Facilitate activity groups, workshops, and social activities in the community.
• Assist in developing skills with public transportation as appropriate.
• Adhere to all state and federal privacy and security regulations applicable to the program, and to CCC policies and agreements regarding confidentiality, privacy, and security.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off plan beginning at 4 weeks of PTO accrual per year.
• Amazing 403(b) Retirement Savings plan with an employer match of 4.25% in your 1st year, 6% in the 2nd year, and 8% in your 3rd year.
• 11 recognized Holidays + 2 Personal Holidays.
• Comprehensive Medical, Vision, and Dental insurance coverage.
• Employer Paid Life, Short-Term Disability, AND Long-Term Disability Insurance.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees