Central City Concern
Peer Support Specialist - African American Specific Program
Central City Concern, Portland, Oregon, United States, 97204
Peer Support Specialist - African American Specific Program
Join to apply for the Peer Support Specialist - African American Specific Program role at Central City Concern. The Imani Center is a culturally specific program providing integrated behavioral health services to Black and African American individuals.
Program Overview The Imani Center services address topics such as cultural boundaries, impact of race on relationships, behavioral health stigma, criminality, justice system biases, and health disparities.
Position Overview The Peer Support Specialist (PSS) is a member of a multidisciplinary team that provides outpatient mental health and substance use treatment services. The PSS will support clients in developing recovery within the African American community. This is a second‑level position that requires specific certifications and offers mental health billing access.
Schedule, Location, and Compensation Schedule: Monday–Friday 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Location: Imani Center, 2040 SE Powell Blvd., Portland, OR 97202. Compensation: $23.36–$30.37 /hr.
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent reading and writing ability.
Certified as a Recovery Mentor (CRM) with MHACBO prior to start, or a certified Peer Support Specialist (PSS) and registered Traditional Health Worker (THW) on the THW Registry.
Engaged in African American culture; knowledge of African American history and cultures.
Meet CCC privileging requirements as required by FTCA.
Current CPR certification prior to start.
Excellent reading, writing, and comprehension skills preferred.
Ability to maintain accurate records and necessary paperwork.
Computer proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.
Education and experience sufficient to succeed, carry out responsibilities, and demonstrate the skills and abilities described.
High tolerance for ambiguity and change.
Required to carry an agency cell phone for work use; a cell phone will be provided.
Non‑violent de‑escalation training or equivalent (or complete within 60 days of hire).
Driving preferred but not required; if using a vehicle, must possess a current driver’s license and meet agency requirements.
Adherence to the agency’s drug‑free workplace policy and compliance with the Drug‑Free Workplace Act of 1988.
Pass a pre‑employment drug screen, TB test, and background check.
Adherence to agency non‑discrimination policies.
Effective interaction with co‑workers and patients from diverse backgrounds, respecting all differences.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Collaborate with the Imani Center and Karibu Team on objectives, wellness, and recovery goals aligned with client care plans.
Demonstrate recovery principles and share personal recovery stories to model possibility and attainment.
Follow outreach plans, meet regularly, and track progress on activities to engage prospective clients.
Build relationships with community leaders, partners, and advocacy groups serving the African American community.
Provide information, screening, and outreach at community programs.
Help clients access further treatment, housing, coordination of care, and services within Central City Concern and the broader community.
Collaborate with A&D outpatient and residential clinical teams for service coordination, system navigation, peer support, including discharge planning and follow‑up.
Visit and connect clients with community resources such as places of worship, recreation, clinics, and other venues.
Advocate for clients navigating healthcare, social, benefits, housing, and other support services.
Maintain boundaries in relationships with clients, staff, and community partners.
Facilitate recovery support activities in the community.
Document client interactions, appointments, and encounters promptly in client records.
Receive regular supervision from the Team Lead and/or Director; document at least two hours of supervision per month.
Attend clinical meetings and provide current information regarding client participation.
Adhere to all applicable state and federal privacy regulations, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2, and CCC policies regarding confidentiality, privacy, and security.
Work within the scope of training and experience; seek consultation when appropriate.
Description of Other Duties
Build and maintain trust with staff, clients, and community partners.
Participate in training to advance mental health and addiction knowledge.
Respond to mental health crises in a clinically and culturally appropriate manner.
Participate in compliance, quality assurance, and quality improvement activities.
Assist with organizing meetings and events.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Skills and Abilities
Provide culturally specific services to African American men and women, including trauma‑informed care and substance use treatment.
Assist participants in developing a healthy African American identity.
Access and coordinate additional community resources for individuals recovering from addiction.
Engage with diverse clients and families across all socioeconomic backgrounds.
Advocate for individuals, families, and community groups.
Function effectively as a team member with flexibility and a positive attitude.
Promote programs and services to the community, faith‑based organizations, funders, and government agencies.
Learn and apply training instruction.
Use de‑escalation methods or be trained to do so.
Resolve conflicts professionally.
Review medical records and client information accurately.
Communicate clearly, both orally and in writing.
Manage time and meet deadlines.
Maintain confidentiality of patient information under strict standards.
Maintain a calm professional demeanor and make independent judgments.
Transport clients by company vehicle when required.
Work evenings, weekends, and/or holidays when necessary.
Benefits
Generous paid time off plan with up to four weeks PTO accrued in the first year.
403(b) Retirement Savings plan with competitive employer match (4.25% first year, 6% second year, 8% third year).
Up to 11 recognized holidays and 2 personal holidays (dependent on shift schedule).
Comprehensive Medical, Vision, and Dental insurance coverage.
Employer‑Paid Life, Short‑Term Disability, and Long‑Term Disability Insurance.
Sabbatical Program offering extended time off at years 7, 14, and 21.
EEO Statement Central City Concern is a second‑chance employer and complies with applicable laws regarding consideration of criminal background for employment purposes. We are an equal‑opportunity employer; we do not discriminate against on grounds of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected category. All applicants and employees are treated with dignity and respect in a drug‑free workplace, and we actively promote a safe, healthy and productive environment.
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Program Overview The Imani Center services address topics such as cultural boundaries, impact of race on relationships, behavioral health stigma, criminality, justice system biases, and health disparities.
Position Overview The Peer Support Specialist (PSS) is a member of a multidisciplinary team that provides outpatient mental health and substance use treatment services. The PSS will support clients in developing recovery within the African American community. This is a second‑level position that requires specific certifications and offers mental health billing access.
Schedule, Location, and Compensation Schedule: Monday–Friday 8:30 am–5:30 pm. Location: Imani Center, 2040 SE Powell Blvd., Portland, OR 97202. Compensation: $23.36–$30.37 /hr.
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent reading and writing ability.
Certified as a Recovery Mentor (CRM) with MHACBO prior to start, or a certified Peer Support Specialist (PSS) and registered Traditional Health Worker (THW) on the THW Registry.
Engaged in African American culture; knowledge of African American history and cultures.
Meet CCC privileging requirements as required by FTCA.
Current CPR certification prior to start.
Excellent reading, writing, and comprehension skills preferred.
Ability to maintain accurate records and necessary paperwork.
Computer proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.
Education and experience sufficient to succeed, carry out responsibilities, and demonstrate the skills and abilities described.
High tolerance for ambiguity and change.
Required to carry an agency cell phone for work use; a cell phone will be provided.
Non‑violent de‑escalation training or equivalent (or complete within 60 days of hire).
Driving preferred but not required; if using a vehicle, must possess a current driver’s license and meet agency requirements.
Adherence to the agency’s drug‑free workplace policy and compliance with the Drug‑Free Workplace Act of 1988.
Pass a pre‑employment drug screen, TB test, and background check.
Adherence to agency non‑discrimination policies.
Effective interaction with co‑workers and patients from diverse backgrounds, respecting all differences.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Collaborate with the Imani Center and Karibu Team on objectives, wellness, and recovery goals aligned with client care plans.
Demonstrate recovery principles and share personal recovery stories to model possibility and attainment.
Follow outreach plans, meet regularly, and track progress on activities to engage prospective clients.
Build relationships with community leaders, partners, and advocacy groups serving the African American community.
Provide information, screening, and outreach at community programs.
Help clients access further treatment, housing, coordination of care, and services within Central City Concern and the broader community.
Collaborate with A&D outpatient and residential clinical teams for service coordination, system navigation, peer support, including discharge planning and follow‑up.
Visit and connect clients with community resources such as places of worship, recreation, clinics, and other venues.
Advocate for clients navigating healthcare, social, benefits, housing, and other support services.
Maintain boundaries in relationships with clients, staff, and community partners.
Facilitate recovery support activities in the community.
Document client interactions, appointments, and encounters promptly in client records.
Receive regular supervision from the Team Lead and/or Director; document at least two hours of supervision per month.
Attend clinical meetings and provide current information regarding client participation.
Adhere to all applicable state and federal privacy regulations, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2, and CCC policies regarding confidentiality, privacy, and security.
Work within the scope of training and experience; seek consultation when appropriate.
Description of Other Duties
Build and maintain trust with staff, clients, and community partners.
Participate in training to advance mental health and addiction knowledge.
Respond to mental health crises in a clinically and culturally appropriate manner.
Participate in compliance, quality assurance, and quality improvement activities.
Assist with organizing meetings and events.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Skills and Abilities
Provide culturally specific services to African American men and women, including trauma‑informed care and substance use treatment.
Assist participants in developing a healthy African American identity.
Access and coordinate additional community resources for individuals recovering from addiction.
Engage with diverse clients and families across all socioeconomic backgrounds.
Advocate for individuals, families, and community groups.
Function effectively as a team member with flexibility and a positive attitude.
Promote programs and services to the community, faith‑based organizations, funders, and government agencies.
Learn and apply training instruction.
Use de‑escalation methods or be trained to do so.
Resolve conflicts professionally.
Review medical records and client information accurately.
Communicate clearly, both orally and in writing.
Manage time and meet deadlines.
Maintain confidentiality of patient information under strict standards.
Maintain a calm professional demeanor and make independent judgments.
Transport clients by company vehicle when required.
Work evenings, weekends, and/or holidays when necessary.
Benefits
Generous paid time off plan with up to four weeks PTO accrued in the first year.
403(b) Retirement Savings plan with competitive employer match (4.25% first year, 6% second year, 8% third year).
Up to 11 recognized holidays and 2 personal holidays (dependent on shift schedule).
Comprehensive Medical, Vision, and Dental insurance coverage.
Employer‑Paid Life, Short‑Term Disability, and Long‑Term Disability Insurance.
Sabbatical Program offering extended time off at years 7, 14, and 21.
EEO Statement Central City Concern is a second‑chance employer and complies with applicable laws regarding consideration of criminal background for employment purposes. We are an equal‑opportunity employer; we do not discriminate against on grounds of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected category. All applicants and employees are treated with dignity and respect in a drug‑free workplace, and we actively promote a safe, healthy and productive environment.
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