Job Description
Job Description
Syracuse Community Connections seeks a Peer Support Specialist for the FACES (Facing Adversity in Community Education and upport) program. The Specialist will provide community education, community engagement support counseling and testing, in the areas of HIV, HCV and other communicable infections. The Specialist will conduct focused education and outreach to vulnerable populations. There is a travel within Onondago County and some weekend duties as well. Reporting to the Program Coordinator, will assist in the coordination of program activities, data collection, stakeholder engagement, and administrative tasks to ensure the successful execution of the program.
Responsibilities:
Program Support:
· Provide ongoing follow-up, basic motivational interviewing and goal setting with clients.
· Provide information on STI prevention and treatment including substance use and support to individuals, families and other stake holders
· Maintain client records in accordance with prudent, generally accepted record keeping procedures, as defined by FACES and as required by law, grants and contracts
· Conducts client intakes and assessments
· Attends all team, agency and community meetings as required
· Answer phone calls and inquiries concerning FACES services and engaged in supportive services offered such as the diaper bank
· Maintain strict confidentiality guidelines regarding all clients, conversations and referrals
· Be active and assertive in the community in efforts to engage the targeted population
· Conducts HIV testing and counseling at various community and in-house events
· Prepares and disseminates educational materials
· Prepares and submits service reports/data and narratives
· Other duties as assigned
Community Engagement:
· Support outreach efforts to engage key populations and community stakeholders in program activities.
· Attend community events and meetings to represent the organization and build relationships with partners and collaborators.
Qualifications and Requirements:
- Certified as a peer specialist (preferably in the state of New York)
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Have an understanding of HIV.
- Interest in integrating personal experience with linkage, retention and adherence into work with clients.
- Understanding of the community served
- Knowledge of relevant community resources and methods for accessing them.
- Good communication skills, such as listening well, and using language appropriately
- Ability to work flexible hours to address client needs.
- Interest or experience in working with clients who are difficult to engage and maintain in traditional health care services.
- Ability to communicate and work effectively with clients and staff from diverse backgrounds.
- Ability and willingness to provide emotional support, encouragement and motivation to clients.
- Basic computer skills.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
- Experience working in a public health setting or with community-based organizations is a plus.
Company DescriptionFounded in 1975 as Syracuse Model Neighborhood Facility (SMNF), SCC manages the city-owned Southwest Community Center at 401 South Avenue—continuing the settlement‐house tradition by supporting local residents through diverse human services.
Company Description
Founded in 1975 as Syracuse Model Neighborhood Facility (SMNF), SCC manages the city-owned Southwest Community Center at 401 South Avenue—continuing the settlement‐house tradition by supporting local residents through diverse human services.