Suicide Prevention Outreach Peer Specialist

VETERAN PATHWAYS OF NEW ENGLAND INC; Ayer (MA); On-site; USD 44,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

The Suicide Prevention Outreach Peer Specialist role at Veteran Pathways of New England Inc. focuses on outreach to Veterans and families, delivering peer support, and providing suicide prevention education across Massachusetts.

Travel throughout the assigned service area is required, engaging with VA facilities, community partners, and local organizations to connect Veterans with needed services. The position collaborates with Case Managers and the Suicide Prevention Clinical Social Worker,

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must be a Veteran with lived experience of recovery or ongoing recovery from a mental health condition, consistent with VA peer support requirements.
• Experience in Veteran support, peer support, community outreach, or human services.

Responsibilities

• Conduct outreach to identify and engage Veterans in need of suicide prevention services.
• Provide individual peer support and mentorship to participants.
• Facilitate peer support groups and wellness activities.
• Coordinate referrals with Case Managers and VA resources.
• Maintain accurate documentation of contacts, referrals, and outcomes.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Independent work

Veteran experience

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Location: Devens, MAWork Setting: Office and field-based, with travel throughout the assigned service areaPosition Type: Full-TimePosition Duration: This position is currently funded for one year, with the possibility of continuation based on future funding availability and organizational needs.Reports To: Assigned Suicide Prevention Case ManagerSupervises: NonePosition OverviewThe Suicide Prevention Outreach Peer Specialist works with Veterans and their families through community outreach, peer support, and suicide prevention education. As part of the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program, the Peer Specialist helps Veterans build supportive connections, access resources, and address challenges that may affect their safety, stability, and overall well-being.Working throughout the assigned Massachusetts service area, the Peer Specialist uses shared experiences and supportive relationships to build trust, reduce social isolation, and encourage Veterans to seek assistance when needed. The role includes individual peer support, community outreach, group activities, and helping participants connect with VA services and community resources.The Peer Specialist collaborates with assigned Suicide Prevention Case Managers, the Suicide Prevention Clinical Social Worker, and community partners to maintain participant engagement and coordinate referrals. This non-clinical position focuses on Veteran outreach, peer mentorship, supportive services, eligibility screening and determination, and documentation in accordance with program requirements.Key ResponsibilitiesVeteran Outreach and Community PartnershipsConduct outreach to identify and engage Veterans who may benefit from suicide prevention services, including those not currently connected to VA care or community resources.Build relationships with VA facilities, community organizations, and service providers to identify outreach opportunities and increase awareness of available services.Participate in community events, outreach activities, and suicide prevention education initiatives, including efforts to reach rural and underserved Veteran populations.Peer Support and Participant EngagementProvide individual peer support and mentorship, using shared experiences to build trust, reduce isolation, and encourage personal growth and supportive connections.Facilitate or assist with peer support groups, wellness activities, and opportunities that promote social connection and reintegration.Maintain participant engagement and coordinate referrals and follow-up with assigned Suicide Prevention Case Managers and the Suicide Prevention Clinical Social Worker to support continuity of services.Service Coordination and Safety SupportConduct eligibility screenings and determine program eligibility in accordance with established program requirements and procedures.Assist Veterans in connecting with VA services, mental health resources, benefits assistance, wellness programs, and other community-based services.Recognize potential safety concerns and follow established procedures for notifying program staff, coordinating referrals, or initiating crisis response.Documentation and Program ComplianceMaintain accurate and timely records of outreach activities, participant contacts, peer support services, referrals, and follow-up activities.Protect participant confidentiality and follow organizational policies, professional boundaries, and program requirements.Participate in required training, supervision, staff meetings, and program evaluations to support service quality and compliance.RequirementsHigh school diploma or equivalent.Must be a Veteran with lived experience of recovery or ongoing recovery from a mental health condition, consistent with VA peer support requirements.Must meet applicable VA peer support qualification standards or have completed peer support training, be pursuing the required credentials, and work under qualified supervision in accordance with program requirements.Experience in Veteran support, peer support, community outreach, human services, behavioral health, or a related field.Strong communication and interpersonal skills.Ability to build supportive relationships with Veterans and families while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.Ability to work independently and collaboratively with Case Managers, clinical staff, and community partners.Ability to recognize potential safety concerns and follow established notification, referral, and crisis response procedures.Ability to maintain accurate and timely documentation of outreach activities, participant contacts, referrals, and follow-up services.Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required. Employees should expect to use personal transportation for field-based work.Ability to travel regularly throughout the assigned Massachusetts service area.Must pass a background check.Preferred QualificationsExperience providing peer support, mentorship, or community outreach services to Veterans.Knowledge of suicide prevention, trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and community-based mental health resources.Experience facilitating peer support groups, wellness activities, or community engagement initiatives.Familiarity with VA programs, Veteran benefits, and community resources.Training in suicide prevention or crisis intervention, such as Mental Health First Aid, ASIST, QPR, or safeTALK.Familiarity with participant documentation and grant-funded program requirements.Application RequirementsAll applicants must submit:ResumeA brief statement describing their interest in serving Veterans and contributing to Veteran Pathways of New England's mission.ScheduleMonday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.Occasional evening or weekend work may be required based on program needs.CompensationThe annual salary range for this position is $44,000–$47,000. The final offer will be based on the candidate’s relevant experience and qualifications.BenefitsMeaningful work directly supporting Veterans and their families.Comprehensive health and dental benefits package.403(b) retirement plan.Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, including holidays.Opportunities for training and professional development.Equal Opportunity StatementVeteran Pathways of New England is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a team that reflects the communities we serve. Veterans, individuals with disabilities, and candidates from all backgrounds are welcome and encouraged to apply.