Peer Support Specialist

Portland, OR, USA - 54353
A Peer Support Specialist provides emotional support and guidance to individuals facing mental health, substance use, or other life challenges. Drawing from their own lived experiences, they help clients navigate recovery by offering encouragement, resources, and coping strategies. Responsibilities include facilitating group discussions, connecting clients to services, and collaborating with healthcare teams to develop personalized support plans. The role requires strong communication skills, empathy, and a commitment to promoting well-being and personal growth in others. Certification as a Peer Support Specialist or relevant training is typically required.
The Peer Support Specialist position requires individuals with lived experience in mental health or substance use recovery, along with a demonstrated commitment to their own personal growth and stability. Candidates should either hold certification as a Peer Support Specialist or be willing to obtain it within a specified time frame. Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential, as is the ability to actively listen and offer compassionate, non-judgmental support. While formal education beyond a high school diploma is not always necessary, a background in psychology, social work, or a related field is advantageous.

Additionally, the role demands the ability to collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team, including healthcare professionals and case managers. Familiarity with local resources and services is important to help clients access the appropriate support. Peer Support Specialists should also be comfortable handling crisis situations with calm and professionalism, while maintaining accurate documentation and client records. A deep understanding of ethical guidelines, including confidentiality and maintaining appropriate boundaries, is crucial. Lastly, candidates must be adaptable, willing to engage in ongoing training, and possess basic computer skills for documentation and communication.
N/A
To be discussed upon hire.
Peer Support Specialist - Responsibilities:

- Provide one-on-one and group peer support to individuals in recovery from mental health or substance use challenges.
- Share personal recovery experiences to inspire and guide clients through their own journey.
- Assist clients in setting personal recovery goals and developing individualized plans.
- Connect clients with community resources and services to support their recovery.
- Collaborate with healthcare teams to ensure coordinated care and support for clients.
- Maintain accurate documentation of client interactions, progress, and outcomes.
- Offer crisis support and referrals to appropriate services as needed.
- Ensure adherence to ethical guidelines, including confidentiality and maintaining professional boundaries.
- Participate in ongoing training and professional development to enhance peer support skills and knowledge.
- Encourage clients to build self-advocacy skills and resilience throughout their recovery process.
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Community Health Worker

Portland, OR, USA - 3532
A Community Health Worker (CHW) serves as a liaison between healthcare providers and the community, helping individuals access healthcare services and providing education on healthy behaviors. The role involves outreach to underserved populations, assisting with care coordination, and promoting preventive health practices. CHWs help bridge cultural and language barriers, connect clients with resources, and advocate for community health needs. They play a key role in improving health outcomes by offering guidance on navigating healthcare systems and supporting individuals in making informed health decisions. Strong communication skills, cultural competency, and a passion for community engagement are essential.
The Community Health Worker position requires a high school diploma or equivalent, though some roles may prefer post-secondary education in public health, social work, or a related field. Candidates must have strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with diverse populations and bridge cultural and language barriers. A deep understanding of the community's needs and a commitment to improving public health are essential.

Previous experience in community outreach or health education is preferred, though not always required. Candidates should have basic knowledge of healthcare systems and preventive health practices. The ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team is crucial. Flexibility, problem-solving skills, and cultural competency are key, along with the ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines. Proficiency in both written and spoken communication, as well as basic computer literacy for documentation and reporting, is expected. Some positions may require fluency in a second language commonly spoken in the community.
N/A
To be discussed upon hire.
Community Health Worker - Responsibilities

- Serve as a liaison between healthcare providers and the community, helping individuals navigate the healthcare system and access services.
- Conduct outreach and engage with underserved populations to promote health and wellness programs.
- Provide health education on topics such as disease prevention, nutrition, and healthy lifestyles.
- Assist clients in managing their healthcare needs by scheduling appointments, providing follow-up care, and offering guidance on treatment plans.
- Advocate for community health needs by identifying gaps in services and suggesting improvements to healthcare programs.
- Connect clients with available resources, such as health insurance, social services, and transportation.
- Build trusting relationships with community members to foster ongoing participation in health initiatives.
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals, social workers, and community organizations to provide comprehensive care.
- Maintain accurate records of client interactions, services provided, and outcomes.
- Attend training sessions to stay updated on public health issues, community needs, and best practices in healthcare outreach.
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Youth & Family Advocate

Portland, OR, USA - 58839
Youth & Family Advocate

The Youth & Family Advocate provides support, advocacy, and resources to children, adolescents, and families facing challenges such as abuse, neglect, mental health issues, or educational difficulties. This role involves working closely with families to assess their needs, connect them with community resources, and provide emotional support. The advocate acts as a liaison between the family and service providers, ensuring that the family’s voice is heard and their needs are met.

Key responsibilities include crisis intervention, case management, and facilitating access to services such as housing, healthcare, and counseling. The advocate also collaborates with schools, social services, and legal systems to ensure the well-being and safety of children. Strong communication skills, empathy, and a deep understanding of child and family dynamics are essential. This position requires the ability to navigate complex situations with sensitivity and professionalism, advocating for the best outcomes for the youth and their families.
The Youth & Family Advocate position typically requires a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field, though equivalent experience may be considered. Candidates must have strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and build trust with both youth and families. Experience in crisis intervention, case management, or advocacy work is preferred.

An in-depth understanding of family dynamics, trauma-informed care, and child development is essential. The role requires the ability to collaborate effectively with schools, social services, healthcare providers, and legal systems to ensure the safety and well-being of children. Candidates should be skilled in problem-solving, resource navigation, and conflict resolution, and must be comfortable handling emotionally challenging situations.

Confidentiality and adherence to ethical guidelines are critical. Basic computer skills are necessary for maintaining case records and communication. Fluency in a second language may be preferred, depending on the community served. Additionally, a valid driver's license and willingness to travel for home visits or outreach may be required.
N//A
To be discussed upon hire.
Youth & Family Advocate - Responsibilities

- Provide direct support and advocacy for youth and families facing challenges such as abuse, neglect, mental health issues, or educational difficulties.
- Conduct assessments to identify family needs and develop individualized service plans.
- Connect families with appropriate community resources, such as counseling, housing, healthcare, and educational services.
- Offer crisis intervention and short-term counseling to stabilize families in urgent situations.
- Serve as a liaison between families and service providers, ensuring families' needs and concerns are addressed.
- Collaborate with schools, social services, legal systems, and healthcare providers to advocate for the best interests of children and their families.
- Assist families in navigating complex systems, such as child protective services or the legal system.
- Maintain accurate and confidential case documentation, including progress reports and service plans.
- Provide emotional support to children and families, helping them build resilience and cope with difficult circumstances.
- Facilitate family meetings and case conferences to ensure a coordinated approach to care and services.
- Advocate for policy changes or programs that better serve the needs of youth and families within the community.
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