Peer Mentor

Job Overview This is a union position.   The Mentoring and Peer Support program (MAPS) provides peer support and navigation services to individuals with criminal justice involvement and a behavioral health disorder or complex medical issue both during incarceration and post-release. Works with clients individually and in group settings with a focus on peer counseling and support. The goal of the programs is to support client recovery and assist with navigating the criminal justice system. Goals of the program include helping clients to maintain recovery, comply with court requirements and maintain engagement in treatment. Peer Mentors work with client both in the jail and in the community. Peer Mentors are proactive in their outreach to clients, are able to work independently and have excellent communication skills  MAPS Peer Mentors work with clients individually and in group settings with a focus on peer counseling and support. Mentors are expected to be able to work independently while also regularly communicating with their supervisor and accounting for their time. Mentors must document on all patient encounters in a timely manner and collect data for reporting purposes as directed. Mentors work as a team and communicate with and support other mentors as needed.   Key Responsibilities Provides regular support to mentees. Reports to and collaborates with the Mentoring and Peer Support (MAPS) Program Coordinator. Submits appropriate paperwork and documentation related to program services and participant contacts.  Assists with resource linkage (e.g., making appointments). Assists mentees with navigating community resources (e.g., transportation, mobility, housing, decision-making, assistive technology, language, government programs, cultural adjustment, immigration services, food assistance, legal assistance, women’s services, medical assistance, mental health services, vocational services, volunteerism, and education programs, and any other services that may support the client on overcoming external barriers to well-being and self-sufficiency. Conducts outreach to residential, community and hospital settings to connect with mentees.  Accompanies mentees, as needed.  Provides one on one peer mentoring. Acts as a liaison between various agencies and programs including community treatment providers, San Francisco Superior Court - Collaborative Courts Program staff, probation, parole and other agencies as needed. Organizes and facilitates support groups, as requested (may be at a variety of locations). Demonstrates commitment to the continued development of multi-cultural understanding through trainings, workshops, reading, etc.  Education and Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Lived experience with one of the following:incarceration, mental illness, substance and/or substance abuse. Completion of a mental health certificate program or equivalent education, preferred. Familiarity with various supportive counseling strategies and wellness and recovery principles in working with clients with mental health, substance abuse, or co-occurring conditions, preferred. Strong interpersonal and active listening skills. Sensitivity to and experience working with the ethnically, culturally, socially, and sexually diverse individuals, communities, agencies, and organizations and persons who have experienced homelessness, incarceration, mental illness and/or substance abuse.  Ability to work independently within a multidisciplinary team and interact effectively with the medical and criminal justice system as well as community providers in order to facilitate comprehensive mental health care delivery. Ability to respond quickly and use good judgment in unusual and emergency situations. Willingness to work with clients in the community.

Salary : $24 - $27