Job Title: Peer Support Specialist
Location: Homeless Services Center, Arlington, VA
Employment Type: Full-time

Are you passionate about using your lived experience to help others? Do you believe in the power of peer support and the importance of dignity, trust, and community? If so, we want you on our team.

We’re seeking a Peer Support Specialist to provide empathetic, peer-based support and advocacy to individuals navigating homelessness and/or substance use recovery. In this vital role, you'll offer one-on-one support, lead recovery sessions, and help clients connect with community resources. Your personal journey and experience will serve as a powerful tool to inspire hope, build trust, and promote long-term stability and healing.

What You’ll Do:

• Provide compassionate peer support to shelter residents facing substance use, mental health, and housing challenges.
• Facilitate individual and group recovery sessions that foster resilience and connection.
• Help clients create and follow personalized recovery plans.
• Connect clients to services like healthcare, housing, and employment support.
• Act as a bridge between clients and professional service providers.
• Educate on harm reduction, relapse prevention, and self-care.
• Keep accurate and confidential documentation.
• Support outreach and program development efforts.

What You Bring:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) or willingness to become certified.
• Lived experience with recovery, homelessness, or mental health challenges.
• Strong commitment to confidentiality, ethics, and advocacy.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• And understanding and appreciate for second chances.
• Experience in shelters, mental health programs, or recovery services preferred.
• Understanding of trauma-informed care and harm reduction.
• Team player with strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Physically able to walk for extended periods and lift up to 30 lbs.

Why Work With Us?

• Competitive salary and benefits, including health insurance and paid time off.
• Supportive, mission-driven team.

Opportunities for professional growth and training.