SSG Fox Peer Support Outreach Specialist (47646)

## Description

**Position Summary:**

Person in this position will be responsible for providing peer-based support, outreach, and engagement services to veterans and service members at risk of suicide. Utilizing lived experience and trauma-informed care, the specialist builds trust with participants, connects them to essential services, and promotes hope, recovery, and wellness. Essential Job Functions include but not limited to those listed below.

# Essential Job Functions

# Conduct community outreach and engagement activities to identify and connect with at-risk veterans and service members.

• Provide peer-to-peer support and mentorship using shared lived experience to foster trust and empowerment.
• Assist individuals in navigating mental health and substance use services, housing resources, crisis intervention, and other support systems.
• Collaborate with local VA facilities, community providers, and the broader support network to coordinate services and referrals.
• Participate in suicide prevention trainings and maintain knowledge of best practices related to peer support and veteran care.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all interactions and services provided, in compliance with grant requirements and confidentiality standards.
• Support follow-up efforts with program participants to ensure continued engagement and service connection.
• Promote protective factors such as connectedness, resilience, and purpose among participants.
• Attend and participate in team meetings, supervision, and relevant community events.
• Must embrace and embody the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision, and goals of WestCare Foundation.
• Other relevant duties as assigned.

## Qualifications

# Essential Qualifications

*To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the duties and responsibilities satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.*

• Strong communication, empathy, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and maintain professional boundaries.
• Must be a veteran or current/former service member with lived experience navigating recovery, mental health challenges, or transitional issues.
• Adherence to the highest standard of ethical conduct, especially to standards governing confidentiality.
• Professional appearance and demeanor.
• Must be able to successfully obtain and maintain a criminal background clearance
• Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain and maintain WestCare’s vehicle insurance is required; and
• CPR Certification, First Aid Certification, and an annual Tuberculosis test.
• During your tenure with WestCare there may be new requirements, including, but not limited to vaccinations that are issued by local, State, Federal, and/or Funders that WestCare may have to comply with. Should this occur Human Resources or appropriate personnel will inform you.

**EDUCATION****and/or****EXPERIENCE:**

• Prior experience working with veteran populations and/or in suicide prevention is strongly preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education in social work, psychology, or human services preferred.

# LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION

• Certified Peer Support Specialist (or ability to obtain certification within 6 months).