Second Chance Program - Peer Counselor

Title:                        Peer Counselor Program:                 Second Chance Salary Range:        $45,000- $55,000 annually plus benefits Schedule:               Monday-Friday, weekends optional, willingness to travel within NYC   Program Overview: Project Renewal’s 2nd Chance program is a unique grant funded outreach program serving people who have a history of opioid use. Services provided include general care coordination, harm reduction education, access to medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD), interventions such as Motivational Interviewing, and community referrals. The goal of this project is to provide programs with additional resources to build their capacity to improve behavioral health outcomes of residents and prevent overdose. Peers will work in our various housing and shelter programs located in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and The Bronx. Position Overview: To create connection, hope and access to services for people with a history of using opioids, contemplating change or in some stage of recovery. The 2nd Chance program spans all PRI programs, including harm reduction services, housing, shelters, and community-based services. This position is open to people with personal lived experience that may include homelessness, incarceration, HIV, injection drug use, substance use, non-normative forms of sexuality, trauma, and/or have struggled with mental health wellness. Essential Duties & Responsibilities: The essential duties of Peer Counselors include but are not limited to the following activities: Escort clients to appointments and programs as needed Promote and provide referrals to a wide range of harm reduction and healthcare resources including those related to syringe exchange, safer injection practices, opioid overdose prevention, and primary care. Meet regularly with participants in the shelter providing peer services, education and outreach. Provide harm reduction counseling services including teaching coping skills, safer use strategies, wellness management and social skills to help participants become more independent and achieve their goals. Participate in staff meetings, case conferences, shelter high risk meetings, and relevant training courses. Conduct NARCAN trainings for both staff and clients Conduct periodic groups at shelter sites or housing programs. Collaborate with participants’ interdisciplinary care teams to discuss their needs, goals and related progress. Collaborate with PRI Substance Use Treatment and Drug User Health programs. Qualifications High School Diploma or Equivalent Certified Recovery Peer Advocate or Provisional (CRPA)  through OASAS or working towards this or a similar credential. Competent writing and computer skills for completion of reports, case notes, and other documentation as needed in electronic health reporting systems. Willingness to share personal experience with others when warranted. Preferred skills: Teamwork: Ability to work cooperatively with peers and other staff to serve the needs of clients as effectively as possible           Communication: Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of staff and with clients Computer: Proficiency in Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, and Outlook, ECW, Language: Bilingual or multilingual is a plus

Salary : $45,000 - $55,000