Peer Support Specialist, Homeless Veteran Program

Job purpose

The mission of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation is to honor the sacrifice of firefighter Stephen Siller who laid down his life to save others on September 11, 2001. We also honor our military and first responders who continue to make the supreme sacrifice of life and limb for our country.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation is committed to eradicating homelessness amongst our veterans. The Foundation is seeking an experienced Peer Support Specialist to work collaboratively with the Program Staff serving Veterans who have experienced unsheltered homelessness and are now transitioning into permanent housing.

Candidates will be responsible for providing self-help and empowerment tools to participants in the community through participant led groups as well as providing individual services.

Duties and responsibilities

• Under general supervision, receive training and serve as a peer support specialist for resident veterans.
• Support resident Veterans in the community reintegration Model and promote the principles of elevation/self-help.
• Ability to navigate Case Management systems (Such as Foothold/PlanStreet or similar)
• Develop community asset-based mapping with the residents and their chosen support team.
• Provide advocacy, support, and bridging services to resident veterans, focusing on wellness and resiliency and improving their quality of life.
• Advocate for other needed services and assist residents in negotiating service systems.
• Educate Veterans about self-help & wellness techniques and activities.
• Develop a strong relationship with the resident's treatment team.
• Observe behaviors that might indicate difficulty adapting (e.g., missed assessment appointments, failure to attend or maintain abstinence, risk to self or others, disruptive behavior), complete appropriate documentation, and report concerns to the treatment team in a timely manner.
• Monitor and problem-solve office and resident issues independently/collectively.
• Submit all programs and resident documentation promptly.
• Implement crisis management strategies when necessary to ensure safety.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including Case Managers, Behavioral Specialists, and others, to coordinate care.
• Maintain accurate documentation of Veteran interactions and progress according to Foundation policies.
• Attend staff meetings and present cases as necessary.
• Identify and utilize community resources to meet residents' needs.
• Actively participate in ongoing training to meet all certification standards and credentialing policies.
• Collaborating closely with Police and EMS to deliver services to individuals in mental health crisis. This includes de-escalation, risk assessment, and making referrals to help Veterans live safely and prevent future crises.
• Must be available for an On-Call schedule.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED (General Equivalency Diploma) required.
• Minimum of three years' experience in the social service field.
• Able to multi-task and maintain a level of professionalism under pressure.
• Strong analytical, problem solving and decision-making skills.
• Excellent organizational and prioritizing skills.
• Proficient ability to multitask using oral, visual and tactile senses simultaneously.
• Experience working in a Crisis Management Model.
• Ability to collaborate and coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including Behavioral health professionals, social workers, and community organizations.
• Prior Peer experience and Peer education training Preferred.
• Candidates must successfully complete an 8-week training program, which includes, but is not limited to, the following topics: Reducing Stigma, Mental Health First Aid, Smart Recovery, CPR/NARCAN Training, Assisting Individuals in Crisis, Psychological Body Armor, and Verbal De-Escalation.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office/ Google Suite (or equivalent)
• Veterans are encouraged to apply and contribute their valuable experience.
• Valid Driver License required.
• Pre-employment screening, including a background check, may be required.

*Application materials should include a résumé and cover letter.

*Required to work on site in Atlanta, GA

Working conditions

Special working conditions may include: a change in days worked, shift hours, and/or working conditions (outdoors or other locations) when participating and assisting in special events as needed.