YMSM Peer Educator

Haitian Centers Council Inc•New York, NY

About The Position

The Peer Educator is a member of the priority population and plays a critical role in engaging community members through culturally responsive, community-based outreach. This position leverages lived experience to build trust, reduce barriers to care, and promote sexual health education, prevention services, and linkage to care among YMSM in community and congregate settings.

Requirements

High School Diploma or Equivalent
Must be a member of the priority population: Young Men who have Sex with Men (YMSM), ages 18–29
Strong connection to and understanding of YMSM community and social networks
Comfortable engaging community members in conversations about sexual health, prevention, and wellness
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and engagement skills
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed for outreach events
Skills in active listening, motivation, and awareness of self
Strong work ethic, particularly in a customer and team setting
Experience with culturally diverse populations
Must be patient centered and relationship oriented
Dependability and reliability to arrive and depart timely for scheduled shifts.
Must pass background check
Support the mission of the organization.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual skills a plus

Responsibilities

Identify, assess, and maintain outreach venues frequented by priority populations, including YMSM-focused, general population, and congregate settings
Conduct regular outreach activities in community-based locations, social spaces, and organized events
Participate in outreach events including health fairs, tabling events, and community activities to promote program services
Engage peers using trauma-informed, sex-positive, and culturally affirming approaches
Communicate regularly with supervisors and team members to coordinate outreach schedules and strategies
Actively identify and support linkages to community resources that support the person’s goals and interests.
Prepare and distribute outreach materials including safer sex kits, condoms, lubricants, flyers, and other promotional materials
Assist with organizing, assembling, and replenishing outreach supplies to ensure readiness for events and field work
Provide accurate, age-appropriate information on sexual health, HIV/STI prevention, harm reduction, and available services
Support and participate in facility-based group activities, workshops, and peer-led discussions as appropriate
Share personal insight and peer-level education to encourage participation in services and healthy decision-making
Collaborate with program staff to tailor messaging that resonates with YMSM communities
Engage an individual to attend treatment or other healthcare services.
Model coping skills.
Assist individuals to identify their goals, strengths, and personal interests regarding recovery and develop long- and short-term strategies for achieving these goals.
Accurately and efficiently document interactions with individuals in appropriate files and electronic databases
Adhere to agency and program-specific policies and procedures.
Collect and submit data to Data Specialist in accordance with agency and program policies and procedures.
Attend staff meetings, training, and other pertinent events s recommended by Program Managers.