Peer Support Specialist-SSVF

Located in Medford, OR

Salary: $19.67-$25.61

Peer Support Specialist – SSVF

Job Title: Peer Support Specialist – SSVF 
Job Hours: Full-Time, 40 hours per week
Wage: $19.67–$25.61 per hour

Position Summary

The Peer Support Specialist – Support Services for Veteran and Families (SSVF) works directly with Veterans and their families to connect them with short-term and long-term services and resources. This position works collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to assist participants in navigating complex resources and processes to obtain and maintain housing.

The Peer Support Specialist helps participants work through barriers that may prevent them from achieving their own definition of self-sufficiency. This position regularly conducts outreach activities throughout Jackson County and works collaboratively with community partners and the outreach team.

The Peer Support Specialist also assists SSVF Case Managers and current program participants by helping connect them with community resources and providing peer-to-peer support.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Identify individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness through direct outreach activities and referrals from shelters, law enforcement, churches, social service providers, and other community organizations.
• Conduct regular sessions with participants to encourage positive adjustment out of homelessness and into stable housing.
• Provide one-on-one support through positive social interactions to build mutual trust and supportive relationships.
• Coach participants and families on self-care and prevention strategies to help avoid returning to homelessness.
• Advocate for Veterans and their families to help them meet their housing goals.
• Work as a member of the program team alongside Community Support Specialists and other staff.
• Assist participants with accessing community resources and provide regular feedback and necessary case notes for participant files.
• Monitor participant progress and maintain accurate records of participant status.
• Provide a reliable support system to help prevent participants from returning to homelessness.
• Make referrals to appropriate community resources based on the needs and goals of each participant.
• Participate in workshops, trainings, outreach activities, meetings, and other program activities as directed.
• Maintain complete participant records, daily activity logs, mileage logs, and other required reports.
• Take appropriate action during homeless emergency situations in accordance with established guidelines and procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality of all program participants and their information.
• Attend required training and certifications related to the Medford severe weather shelter.
• Serve in a leadership role during severe weather shelter activations, including serving as a primary point of contact during operations.
• Work flexible hours during severe weather activations, including nights and weekends.
• Regularly participate in community outreach events with the outreach team.
• Develop relationships with community partners and learn about available programs and services to better provide wraparound support to participants.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Position Requirements

• Commitment to helping individuals and families overcome barriers and access resources and services.
• Minimum of one year of direct client contact and/or customer service experience.
• Must have Peer Support Certification.
• Must complete required crisis intervention training within one year of employment.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with computers and basic software programs, including Microsoft Office.
• Ability and willingness to work occasional nights and weekends.
• Ability and willingness to work in a leadership role at the severe weather shelter during activations.
• Ability to interact effectively with individuals and groups from diverse educational, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Demonstrated ability to listen with sensitivity, understand others' needs and perspectives, and communicate with tact and courtesy.
• Ability to work flexible hours and, at times, in poor weather conditions.
• Ability to adjust to changing conditions, priorities, and participant needs.
• Valid Oregon driver's license with a driving record that meets organizational insurance requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous military experience with honorable discharge.

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