Peer Advocate

anchorhousenj; Trenton (NJ); On-site; USD 40,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Dental and Vision coverage

$500 towards co-pays and deductibles

403(b) Pension Plan

Life insurance and Long-term Disability

Paid Time Off (starting at 23 days)

Free, on-site parking

Job summary

A community support organization in Trenton is seeking a Peer Advocate for their Connect to Home Program. The ideal candidate will support youth aging out of the child welfare system and those experiencing homelessness. Responsibilities include teaching life skills and offering guidance. The role requires strong communication skills and lived experience in child welfare. This full-time position offers a salary of $40,000-$42,000, with additional benefits.

Qualifications

• Two years of professional work experience required.
• Lived experience in the child welfare or homelessness system is essential.
• Ability to thrive in independent roles and collaborate in team settings.

Responsibilities

• Provide support and guidance to youth aging out of the child welfare system.
• Teach essential life skills through hands-on learning opportunities.
• Encourage youth engagement in group activities and community programs.

Skills

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Ability to build trusting relationships

Empathy

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Are you looking for a job with a purpose where your talents and skills are valued? Are you looking to make a difference? If so, Anchor House is the perfect place for you!

Having served the Trenton area for more than 47 years, Anchor House has been providing services to youth and young adults who have run away and those that are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness, abuse, or neglect. We are looking to add to our dynamic team!

Our ideal candidate is looking for a career with purpose in an established organization that is big enough to offer work in different areas, but still small enough that you are known by your name and not just a number.

We are currently seeking a Peer Advocate , for our Connect to Home Program in Trenton, NJ, to join our team. As a Peer Advocate, you’ll use your lived experience in the child welfare or homelessness system to provide guidance and hope to youth who are aging out of the child welfare system and those struggling with homelessness.

This position is Monday to Friday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Salary Range: $40,000-$42,000 (Full-Time)

What You’ll Do:

• Provide support, guidance, and hope while fostering youth independence for each youth.
• Teach essential life skills through hands-on learning opportunities.
• Apply trauma-informed care to create a safe and supportive environment.
• Collaborate with Youth Advisory Boards and advocacy groups to amplify youth voices.
• Represent the organization in county committees and community initiatives.
• Encourage youth engagement in group activities and community programs.
• Develop partnerships to expand resources and enhance services.
• Lead psychoeducation groups to support personal growth and well-being.
• Offer aftercare support to ensure continued success.

What You Bring:

• High School Diploma or equivalent AND two years of professional work experience.
• Lived experience in the child welfare or homelessness system.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively engage with diverse audiences.
• Ability to thrive in independent roles, collaborate in team settings, and perform well under pressure.
• Demonstrated empathy and the ability to build trusting relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information with professionalism and discretion.

What We Offer:

Anchor House offers a team that is welcoming, inclusive, and supportive, a structured new hire training program, and an embedded belief that by working together and through strong community partnerships WE can make a difference!

We also offer:

• Dental and Vision coverage
• $500 towards co-pays and deductibles
• 403(b) Pension Plan with contributions (25% of your contribution up to 5%, plus an additional 2% contribution)
• Life insuranceand Long-term Disability
• Paid Time Off (starting at 23 days, earning one day per month in your first year)
• Free, on-site parking

All positions require a valid driver’s license in good standing and the ability to pass a criminal background check, including CARI and CHRI.

Anchor House is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to providing residential,case management, mental health, and support services for youth and young adults from throughout New Jersey.