Peer Bridger - South Beach Bridger Program
Qualifications
Peer Bridger candidates are current or former recipients of mental health services. Must have good office skills. Experience or training in Peer Advocacy is also required as well as basic knowledge of Self-Help Techniques and the ability to be patient and supportive with consumers. A knowledge of Community Mental Health Systems is a plus. Basic phone and computer skills are needed. High School Diploma or equivalent APS (Academy of Peer Services) certification or submission of application for certification within 6 months of hire Peer Bridger candidates must have been current or former recipients of mental health services. Some experience or training in Peer Advocacy is also required as well as basic knowledge of Self-Help Techniques and the ability to be patient and supportive with consumers Knowledge of the Community Mental Health System is a plus Internet Savvy with knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel Also, applicants must have the ability to complete the required paperwork
Essential Functions
- Direct Services Outreach & Community Engagement
- Conduct street outreach, community canvassing, and in-person engagement in shelters, hospitals, crisis centers, adult homes, and other public spaces.
- Must be willing to travel to all five (5) boroughs.
- Participate in community events, tabling, presentations, and partnerships to raise awareness about peer-led services.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with community organizations, service providers, and stakeholder groups.
- Provide information on available community resources, such as housing support, benefits, healthcare, and recovery programs.
- Facilitate warm hand-offs to ensure smooth transitions into community-based programs or support.
- Promote recovery-oriented, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approaches across all interactions.
- Conduct street outreach, community canvassing, and in-person engagement in shelters, hospitals, crisis centers, adult homes, and other public spaces.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation of outreach activities and community engagement.
- Complete outreach logs, follow-ups, and other required reporting using agency-approved systems.
- Attend staff meetings, case discussions, supervision sessions, and required training.
- Administrative support for Program Manager
- Collaborate with program staff and external partners to support coordinated care.
- Participate in ongoing professional development and required peer support certification training.
- Contribute to a supportive, respectful, and recovery-focused team environment.
Qualifications
- Lived personal experience with mental health challenges, substance use, trauma, homelessness, or related experiences.
- Willingness to share lived experience appropriately as a tool for connection and support.
- Strong communication, listening, and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to work independently in the community and adapt to changing needs.
- Basic computer literacy for documentation.
- Certified Peer Specialist (NYCPS or NYS-CPS) or willingness to obtain certification within six (6) months of employment.
- Experience with outreach, community engagement, or peer support roles.
- Knowledge of local community resources and support systems.
- Bilingual or multicultural skills.
Core Competencies
- Empathy & Active Listening
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Cultural Humility
- Strengths-Based Approach
- Boundary Management
- Community Engagement Skills
- Collaboration & Teamwork
- Flexibility and Adaptability
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Regular fieldwork, including community outreach, and participation in events.
- Ability to walk, stand, or travel for extended periods while conducting outreach.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Regular fieldwork, including community outreach, and participation in events.
- Ability to walk, stand, or travel for extended periods while conducting outreach.