Peer Advocate-Swing

Position Purpose:

The Peer Advocate will serve as a valued member of the interdisciplinary team responsible for providing comprehensive health and social services to clients at Wesley Health Centers' Enhanced Services Program (ESP) Program. This role also involves collaboration with the health education and prevention team. Through this partnership, the Peer Advocate will share practical information and personal insights from life experiences to assist clients facing similar challenges at Wesley Health Centers.

Program Population:

The ESP Recuperative Care Program consists of a cohesive team of clinicians, community health workers, and other professionals working together to provide housing and critical services to people experiencing homelessness (PEH) and those who have previously experienced homelessness. Clients/patients may present with behavioral and/or substance use issues. The program follows a Harm Reduction Model, and we are committed to doing "whatever it takes" to support the success of each client.

Principal Responsibilities:

1. Build strong rapport with clients, showing genuine care for their well-being.
2. Provide consistent support, motivating clients to engage in behavior modification programs.
3. Maintain accurate, up-to-date, and confidential records tracking client progress in personal behavior changes.
4. Initiate contact with clients once or twice monthly during scheduled hours.
5. Accompany clients to referrals for health and social services, encouraging adherence and accurately documenting progress.
6. Facilitate referrals to substance use recovery services, healthcare facilities, family planning services, and other relevant social services.
7. Deliver approved curriculum-based educational content and skill-building information.
8. Share personal experiences related to incarceration, substance use, mental health, and other risk behaviors.
9. Assist in the ongoing collection of program data and the completion of program-related forms.
10. Contribute to the preparation of monthly reports for funding agencies.
11. Adhere to all organizational safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements to ensure a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors.
12. Participate in required safety and compliance trainings and apply learned practices in daily work activities.
13. Identify, report, and help mitigate unsafe conditions, incidents, or hazards in the workplace.
14. Use equipment, tools, and supplies safely and responsibly in accordance with organizational and regulatory standards.
15. Maintain awareness of infection control, occupational health, and emergency preparedness procedures appropriate to the role.
16. Perform any other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

1. Proven experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness.
2. High School diploma or GED.
3. Exceptional communication skills, especially in engaging homeless individuals with substance use or other related challenges.
4. Personal experience overcoming challenges similar to those faced by clients.
5. Ability to reliably travel to various community sites and attend appointments on time.
6. A strong desire to make a difference in the lives of homeless individuals.

*All JWCH, Wesley Health Centers workforce members are recommended to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Employee Benefits:

At JWCH Institute, Inc., we believe in taking care of those who take care of others. If you work 30+ hours per week, you’ll enjoy competitive pay and a benefits package that includes:

• A monthly allowance for medical, dental, and vision premiums
• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave) and 13 paid holidays
• 401(k) Safe Harbor Profit Sharing plan
• Mileage reimbursement
• Short- and long-term disability plans, life insurance, and more!

Become part of a team where your work matters. Apply today and help us change lives, one patient at a time.

JWCH Institute, Inc + Wesley Health Centers is an Equal Opportunity Employer!