Volunteers of America Colorado
Peer Support Specialist
Volunteers of America Colorado, Denver, Colorado, United States, 80285
Volunteers of America Colorado believes unique challenges require unique and thoughtful solutions. VOA creates specialized programs to meet the critical needs of the communities we serve—our programs across Colorado look different because each community is distinct. We support Denver’s homeless veterans who have been underserved, and prepare preschoolers challenged by poverty to be successful in elementary school and beyond.
A Peer Support Specialist leverages and models their individual lived experience of recovery from incarceration, addiction and/or mental health concerns, along with skills in resiliency and training, to deliver supportive services in the Colorado Rapid Rehousing for Reentry setting and promotes a wholistic mind-body approach to recovery and resiliency among program participants. This role requires knowledge of homelessness, incarceration, skills with support and advocacy, and provides connection to resources and treatment.
Responsibilities
Works in collaboration with Department of Corrections, local justice partners, the Continuum of Care, the state of Colorado Department of Local Affairs Division of Housing, local mental health providers, and other local partners to provide community resources for individuals experiencing homelessness, advocates for client housing needs, works to resolve system failures to overcome housing barriers. Peer Specialists initiate contact with program participants and connect individuals experiencing homelessness to services, including but not limited to housing resources, healthcare including Medicaid and behavioral health treatments, and public benefits including SSI/SSDI. Follows up with individuals/households post-housing to check-in on stability and recovery progress (if applicable), assess for needs, and refers to further resources, as needed. Works independently, exercises good judgment and participates as a member of a multidisciplinary team. Demonstratable skills in operating computer programs (Word, Excel, databases), office equipment, and telephones. Travels to service locations, agency partners, and participant residences to conduct outreach and follow-up. Supports individuals in recovery with evidence-based practices associated with participant engagement and care. Coordinates with case managers, clinicians, therapists, and staff to foster positive outcomes in housing and behavioral health. Requirements
Must have maintained recovery from individually identified conditions(s) for a period of at least one year. Lived experience of incarceration and in-depth knowledge of mental health/substance use. Colorado driver’s license and state-mandated automobile insurance. Preferred Qualifications
Maintained recovery from their conditions(s) for over a period of one year. Lived experience of homelessness. Lived experience with justice involvement. 1 year of related experience in the field of Peer Recovery support. Possesses personal vehicle for transportation related to program needs. Volunteers of America is an EEO Employer. Veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.
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Works in collaboration with Department of Corrections, local justice partners, the Continuum of Care, the state of Colorado Department of Local Affairs Division of Housing, local mental health providers, and other local partners to provide community resources for individuals experiencing homelessness, advocates for client housing needs, works to resolve system failures to overcome housing barriers. Peer Specialists initiate contact with program participants and connect individuals experiencing homelessness to services, including but not limited to housing resources, healthcare including Medicaid and behavioral health treatments, and public benefits including SSI/SSDI. Follows up with individuals/households post-housing to check-in on stability and recovery progress (if applicable), assess for needs, and refers to further resources, as needed. Works independently, exercises good judgment and participates as a member of a multidisciplinary team. Demonstratable skills in operating computer programs (Word, Excel, databases), office equipment, and telephones. Travels to service locations, agency partners, and participant residences to conduct outreach and follow-up. Supports individuals in recovery with evidence-based practices associated with participant engagement and care. Coordinates with case managers, clinicians, therapists, and staff to foster positive outcomes in housing and behavioral health. Requirements
Must have maintained recovery from individually identified conditions(s) for a period of at least one year. Lived experience of incarceration and in-depth knowledge of mental health/substance use. Colorado driver’s license and state-mandated automobile insurance. Preferred Qualifications
Maintained recovery from their conditions(s) for over a period of one year. Lived experience of homelessness. Lived experience with justice involvement. 1 year of related experience in the field of Peer Recovery support. Possesses personal vehicle for transportation related to program needs. Volunteers of America is an EEO Employer. Veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.
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