Overview

Title:                          Peer Counselor

Program:                  Third Street Shelter

Salary Range:          $38,850/Year

 

Program Description:

East Third Street is an emergency men’s shelter which helps 175 individuals with substance abuse histories work towards health, sobriety, and, ultimately, permanent housing and employment.  In addition to lodging and three meals a day, clients receive comprehensive case management services, plus an array of on-site substance abuse related and health care services provided by different programs such as Medically Supervised Outpatient Withdrawal Services, (MSOWS), Chemical Dependency Crisis Service (CDCS), and Outpatient Recovery Center.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The essential duties of the Peer Counselor include but are not limited to the following activities:

  • Escort clients to housing interviews, recreational activities and other relevant appointments.
  • Advocate for clients when necessary. 
  • Takes responsibility for personal recovery at all times, and models self-responsibility.
  • Encourages consumers to attend consumer meetings/support groups, recreational activities and supports their effort.
  • Coach peers about recovery.
  • Share experiences.
  • Participate with Team and attend meetings as required.
  • Communicates with the Social Services team to discuss client concerns or client’s progress.
  • Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Social Services, Assistant Director or Program Director.

Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid New York State Driver’s License a plus.
  • Personal experience with mental health, substance abuse or MICA issues and 1.5 years of continuous sobriety if in recovery from alcohol/substance abuse. 
  • Experience working with people with co-occurring substance abuse and mental illness. 
  • Ability to work cooperatively with peers and other staff in order to serve the needs of the clients as effectively as possible.
  • Excellent oral, writing, and listening skills.
  • Knowledge of case management software as well as Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Bilingual or multilingual a plus.

 

 

All newly hired Project Renewal staff must provide verification of being fully vaccinated against Covid-19.