AmeriCorps Youth Peer Support Specialist (20-24 hours/week)
About The Position
The AmeriCorps Youth Peer Support Specialist will provide direct peer-to-peer support, mentorship, and guidance to youth who are experiencing challenges related to mental health, substance use, navigating difficult life transitions, or other social-emotional needs. Drawing on their own lived experiences, the Peer Support Specialist will serve as a relatable role model, fostering hope, empowerment, and a sense of belonging for program participants. This position is a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of young people while gaining valuable experience in the fields of youth development, social work, and public health.
Requirements
- Personal lived experience as a young person who has navigated mental health challenges, substance use, system involvement, or similar significant life challenges, and is now in a place of stable recovery or wellness.
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Youth Peer Support Certification required within the first 3 months of employment.
- Youth Mental Health First Aid Certification completed within the first 3 months of employment. (Paid training time)
Nice To Haves
- Some college coursework or a degree in related field (e.g., social work, psychology, education) is a plus.
Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain supportive, trusting relationships with youth participants, acting as a positive role model.
- Share personal experiences of recovery, resilience, and successful navigation of challenges in a way that is empowering and appropriate.
- Listen empathetically to youth concerns, offering non-judgmental support and validation.
- Assist youth in identifying their strengths, goals, and developing coping strategies.
- Provide encouragement and motivation to engage in positive activities and healthy behaviors.
- Connect youth with appropriate community resources, including mental health services, substance use treatment, educational support, employment opportunities, housing assistance, and social services.
- Advocate for youth needs within systems (e.g., school, juvenile justice, healthcare, etc.) as appropriate and with proper consent.
- Help youth navigate complex systems and understand their rights.
- Co-facilitate or lead workshops, and psychoeducation sessions on topics relevant to youth well-being (e.g., stress management, communication skills, healthy relationships, goal setting, etc.).
- Create a safe and inclusive environment for group participation.
- Maintain accurate and confidential records of interactions with youth, progress toward goals, and referrals.
- Complete required AmeriCorps program documentation and reports in timely manner.
- Participate in regular supervision (at host site) and team meetings (at Talbert House).
- Actively participate in all AmeriCorps and program-specific training, including those related to peer support ethics, youth development, Mental Health First Aid, cultural competencies, and others as identified by program.
- Engage in ongoing personal and professional growth.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
