Impactful Peer Support Specialist - Bend, In Person

Shepherd's House Ministries; Bend (OR); On-site; USD 20,664 - 28,929; Part time

Job summary

Shepherd’s House Ministries in Bend, Oregon, seeks a part-time Peer Support Specialist to help manage day-use activities at The Lighthouse Navigation Center. The role focuses on creating a welcoming environment, encouraging engagement, and supporting guests in pursuing health, stability, and recovery.

You will work closely with the Associate Director and Program Manager, connect participants to case managers and community resources, and assist volunteers, with an emphasis on confidentiality and

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional education or training in social services, peer support, or a related field is a plus.
• Previous experience in a peer support or social services role preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds and with varying needs.
• Experience with or knowledge of homelessness, addiction recovery, mental health, and trauma-informed care.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite and email communication.
• Familiarity with community resources and services available to individuals experiencing homelessness is desirable.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to professional ethical standards.

Responsibilities

• Create a welcoming and safe environment where guests are encouraged to benefit from day-use activities and navigation services.
• Support the Associate Director and Program Manager in developing and facilitating daily experiential learning activities.
• Engage with participants to understand their stories, build trust, and establish meaningful connections.
• Guide participants in achieving health, stability, and recovery by helping them connect with case managers, service providers, treatment teams, and community partners.
• Advocate for and provide referrals to ensure participants access a variety of services, including mental and physical health services.
• Escort participants to provider appointments as needed.
• Introduce participants to supportive services and activities.
• Guide and assist volunteers in establishing and navigating their relationships with the Navigation Center, participants, and staff.
• Collaborate with the team, service providers, and volunteers to identify innovative ways to address chronic homelessness.
• Respond to call-outs and participant emergencies as required.
• Discuss and process case plans, coping methods, life choices, and rehabilitation strategies with participants.
• Contribute to the safe, secure, and sanitary operation of the Navigation Center, cooperating with the facilities manager and supervising appropriate SHM staff as needed.
• Fulfill other relevant duties as communicated by the Director of Navigation Center, Associate Director of Navigation Center, and other SHM supervisors.

Skills

Strong interpersonal and communication

Experience with homelessness, recovery

Engage with diverse populations

Work well in fast-paced environment

Basic computer skills

Familiarity with community resources

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Social services training/education a plus

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Shepherd’s House Ministries in Bend, Oregon, seeks a part-time Peer Support Specialist to help manage day-use activities at The Lighthouse Navigation Center. The role focuses on creating a welcoming environment, encouraging engagement, and supporting guests in pursuing health, stability, and recovery.

You will work closely with the Associate Director and Program Manager, connect participants to case managers and community resources, and assist volunteers, with an emphasis on confidentiality and