• Peer Support Specialist

    Volunteers of America Upstate New York (Ithaca, NY)


    Peer Support Specialist

    Job Details

    Job Location

     

    Ithaca - ithaca, NY

    Position Type

    Full Time

     

    Salary Range

     

    $28.00 - $28.00 Hourly

     

    Travel Percentage

     

    Negligible

     

    Job Posting Date(s)

     

    Start Date

     

    10/21/2025

     

    End Date

     

    11/21/2025

    Description

    Job Title: Family Shelter Peer Support Specialist

     

    Job Type: Full-Time

     

    Hours: 11 AM - 7 PM

    Position Overview:

    Volunteers of America of Upstate NY seeks a dedicated and compassionate Family Shelter Peer Support Specialist. This position is designed for individuals with lived experience of homelessness who are passionate about supporting and empowering families in need. The ideal candidate will provide peer support, facilitate programming, and advocate for homeless families in a safe and nurturing environment.

    Key Responsibilities:

    Peer Support: Utilize personal experience of homelessness to build rapport and trust with families. Offer emotional support, guidance, and encouragement to help families navigate challenges.

     

    Skill Development: Teach essential life skills and coping strategies to families, including budgeting, job searching, communication, and parenting.

     

    One-on-One Sessions: Regularly meet with families to assess their needs, set goals, and provide personalized support.

     

    Programming: Develop and implement engaging group activities and workshops that foster community building, skill development, and resilience among families.

     

    Advocacy: Serve as an advocate for families, connecting them to resources, services, and community support systems. Actively work to identify barriers to housing and support families in overcoming these challenges.

     

    Collaboration: Work closely with shelter staff, social workers, and community organizations to ensure comprehensive support for families.

     

    Documentation: Maintain accurate records of interactions, progress, and relevant incidents to inform program development and improve services.

    Qualifications:

    Lived Experience: Must have personal experience with homelessness and a strong desire to help others in similar situations.

     

    Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to relate to diverse populations.

     

    Empathy and Compassion: A genuine understanding of the challenges homeless families face and a commitment to fostering a supportive environment.

     

    Organizational Skills: Strong organizational abilities to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities effectively.

     

    Team Player: Ability to work collaboratively with staff and external partners while working independently.

     

    Background Check: Must be willing to undergo a background check as agency policies require.

    Benefits :

    - Competitive salary

     

    - Health, dental, and vision insurance

     

    - Paid time off and holidays

     

    - Opportunities for professional development and training

     

    If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of homeless families and have the lived experience to inspire change, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding position. Join us in our mission to empower individuals and families toward a stable and hopeful future.