Description

This position will include assisting the project manager with coordinating outreach activities, managing?program result outputs and engaging residents in the community, grassroots canvassing throughout?Harris County and all targeted locations, and Naloxone training and distribution. 

Roles and Responsibilities  

1. Peer Support and Outreach: 

• Provide peer support to individuals affected by substance use disorders within Harris County, particularly focusing on Black communities. 
• Conduct outreach efforts to engage individuals in harm reduction practices and provide support to those seeking assistance. 

2. Recovery Support Services: 

• Offer peer support to individuals who disclose a need for further support in connection to resources for recovery and life needs. 
• Provide one-on-one coaching and assistance in navigating resources and accessing treatment services. 
• Provide extensive follow-up services with each client to ensure barriers are removed, and resource connection is successful.  

3. Community Resource Fairs: 

• Participate in organizing and facilitating harm reduction resource fairs in targeted neighborhoods. 
• Provide peer support and engage in conversations with community members to encourage participation and provide assistance. 
• Support naloxone distribution efforts and provide peer education during community events. 

4. Naloxone Training and Distribution: 

• Assist in daily outreach efforts to distribute naloxone kits to community members. 
• Provide peer support and education on naloxone administration to individuals and organizations, emphasizing its importance in preventing overdose deaths. 

While the primary focus of a Community Use Peer Support Specialist is on providing direct peer support and outreach services, they may also have certain administrative roles and responsibilities to support the smooth operation of the program.  

Administrative tasks may include: 

1. Documentation and Record-Keeping: 

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of client interactions, including notes on support sessions, referrals made, and progress observed. 
• Ensure that all documentation complies with confidentiality and privacy regulations. 

2. Scheduling and Coordination: 

• Schedule appointments and follow-up sessions with clients, ensuring that they receive timely support. 
• Coordinate with other team members or service providers to arrange referrals or additional support services for clients as needed. 

3. Data Entry and Reporting: 

• Enter client data into the program's database or information management system accurately and in a timely manner. 
• Assist in compiling data and generating reports on program activities, outcomes, and client progress for internal or external reporting purposes. 

4. Resource Management: 

• Maintain an inventory of educational materials, resources, and supplies needed for outreach activities or support sessions. 
• Assist in ordering new materials or supplies as needed, keeping track of expenditures and budgets. 

5. Communication and Collaboration: 

• Communicate regularly with team members and supervisors to provide updates on client progress, challenges encountered, and any administrative needs. 
• Collaborate with other staff members, including clinicians, outreach workers, and administrators, to ensure coordinated and integrated service delivery. 

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree preferred.

• Strong organizational, coordination, and project management skills required.
• Experience in case management, outreach, or community-based program coordination.
• Background in community health, public health, behavioral health, or related fields preferred.
• Experience working with underserved populations and addressing health disparities strongly preferred.
• Comfort with data tracking, analysis, and reporting, and using insights to drive program performance and OD2A outcomes.