Peer Support Specialist

Department:     Programs

Reports to:        Program Manager or Case Management/Clinical Supervisor

Status:                Hourly, Full-time, Non-exempt

Position Objective:

The Peer Support Specialist role exists to enhance services available to Horizon House neighbors and/or housing program participants through peer-to-peer connections that intentionally draw upon lived experience to help others with similar challenges. Peer Support Specialists will engage with pre-housing and housing clients to help them achieve individualized goals around improving physical, mental and/or emotional well-being that promote financial and housing stability.  Peer activities include assertive engagement, modeling positive behaviors/choices, engendering hope, upholding accountability and advocating for equity. Peer Support Specialists will work in coordination with other Horizon House staff including Case Managers and Employment and Guest Services positions as well as with community partners with whom clients are engaged.

Requirements:

Training/Education:

• Certification as a Peer Support Specialist/recovery coach (CHW, CRS) or similar credential preferred; ability to become certified within 90 days required

• One to two years of experience providing services to homeless or low-income persons preferred (may include employment, educational or volunteer experiences, internships, and academic studies).

Experience/Skills:

• Strong commitment to one’s own personal recovery and ability to use one’s experience to help others

• Ability to engage and establish positive rapport with a diverse group of individuals experiencing homelessness who are on the street or in other locations not intended for human habitation and/or with individuals living in supportive housing
• Ability to work cooperatively and productively with multi-disciplinary team and staff of partner agencies and community organizations
• Exceptional communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Knowledge of human behavior, trauma response, and recovery strategies and the ability to model healthy behaviors and personal accountability

• Strong organizational and time management skills 
• Knowledge and skill in electronic communication including Microsoft Outlook and Word, electronic databases and virtual meeting platforms, or the ability to become proficient in these applications

Special Requirements:

• MUST HAVE a valid Indiana operator’s license in good standing and proof of state-required auto insurance. Utilization of personal vehicle for travel within the community is required. Approved mileage is paid at current IRS reimbursement rate.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Engage and Support: Engage a diverse group of individuals experiencing homelessness and/or living in supportive housing at various locations in Indianapolis. Build rapport and develop authentic, trusting and professional relationships based on the written tenets of peer certification adopted by the agency. Activities may include but not be limited to modeling coping strategies, brainstorming and supporting recovery behaviors, encouraging positive choices, and upholding accountability.

System Navigation: Offer education and support in accessing available resources and services in ways that promote client self-determination, empowerment and goal attainment.  

Coordination of Services: Contribute to the development, coordination and implementation of a client-centered plan that supports any combination of health, mental health, recovery, financial and housing stability goals. Work in close coordination with case managers, supervisors and other staff while providing professional peer services consistent with the care plan as outlined by the team and supervised by the Case Manager or Program Supervisor.

Record Keeping:  Maintain appropriate and timely documentation including but not limited to client identifying information, service records and case notes.  Documentation of encounters with clients and services performed on behalf of clients will be compliant with agency and Indianapolis Continuum of Care (CoC) standards and protocols and entered into the HMIS adopted by the CoC and utilized by Horizon House.

-Legal and Ethical Practice:  Take appropriate action based on agency protocol and in accordance with the law.   Observe policies related to client confidentiality with respect to reports of abuse or neglect or other reports to law enforcement entities. Maintain ethical conduct/behavior with clients, co-workers, and colleagues according to applicable agency policies and the tenets of peer certification adopted by the agency.

-Case Conferences and Staff Meetings: Work cooperatively and cohesively with other members of the multi-disciplinary team, including participation in assigned staff meetings and trainings; Participate fully in community meetings as applicable and assigned. Engage in mutual learning and support with other Peer Support Specialists via group supervision and coaching.

-Strengthen Communities:  Ensure thorough awareness of community offerings, resources, and events. Identify/lead groups and activities to strengthen social interaction and feeling of purpose and belonging.

The preceding essential function statements are not intended to be an exhaustive list of tasks & functions for this position.  Additional tasks & functions may be assigned as needed to fulfill the mission, vision & goals of the organization.

Contacts and Liaisons:

The Peer Support Specialist will regularly communicate with Horizon House employees, outside vendors and other individuals as deemed necessary in order to fulfill the responsibilities of the position.

Horizon House is proud to be an equal opportunity employer that promotes and values diversity & inclusion in the workplace. We encourage qualified applicants to apply for open positions regardless of their race, color, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical abilities, age, sexual orientation, veteran status, or criminal background.