Peer Support Specialist

Position Summary:
Kachemak Bay Recovery Connection (KBRC) is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Peer Support Specialist to join our team. This position is vital to helping individuals in recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) navigate their recovery journeys by providing peer support, guidance, and advocacy. The Peer Support Specialist will play a central role in fostering a safe and inclusive environment at our Recovery Community Center (RCC), facilitating connections, and promoting a recovery-oriented culture.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Peer Support: Provide one-on-one support to individuals seeking or maintaining recovery from SUD. Offer guidance, emotional support, and encouragement in a non-judgmental, empathetic manner.
  • Recovery Coaching: Promote all pathways to recovery and help individuals set and achieve goals related to their recovery. Offer guidance and support as they work towards these goals, making adjustments to their recovery plan as necessary.
  • Systems Navigation: Assist individuals in accessing resources such as treatment programs, support groups, employment opportunities, housing, and social services. Help participants set and achieve personal recovery goals.
  • Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate records using our Recovery Data Platform (RDP) to document peer support interactions, participant progress, and service outcomes. Report regularly to the Peer Services Coordinator and Operations Manager.
  • Maintain Confidentiality: Ensure that all participant information and recovery details are handled in accordance with KBRC’s confidentiality policies and ethical guidelines.
  • Cultural Competency: Serve individuals from diverse backgrounds and foster an inclusive, supportive environment that respects the unique needs and challenges of each person.
  • Facilitate Peer Groups: Lead or co-facilitate peer recovery support groups, meetings, and recovery-focused events at the Recovery Community Center (RCC). Encourage community building and shared experiences.
  • Advocacy & Outreach: Engage in advocacy efforts to reduce stigma around addiction and recovery. Represent KBRC in community outreach, presenting the organization’s mission and services to the public.
  • Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other KBRC staff, volunteers, and community organizations to ensure holistic support for individuals in recovery.
  • Personal Recovery Commitment: Actively engage in your own recovery and maintain a commitment to personal growth and accountability.

Qualifications:

  • Lived Experience: Must be in long-term recovery (preferably at least one year) from SUD or OUD.
  • Peer Support Training: Peer Support Associate (PSA) certification or the ability to obtain certification upon hire.
  • Strong Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to listen actively, communicate empathetically, and manage difficult situations with professionalism.
  • Community Engagement: Demonstrated ability to build trusting relationships within a community-based setting.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Ability to work with diverse populations, respecting cultural, gender, and personal differences.
  • Confidentiality & Ethics: Strong understanding of confidentiality principles and ethics related to peer support work and recovery services.
  • Team-Oriented: Ability to work as part of a collaborative team while also taking initiative to support individuals in recovery independently.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working in a recovery community organization, social services, or peer support setting.
  • Knowledge of local resources for individuals in recovery and an understanding of the challenges faced by those with SUD and OUD.
  • Familiarity with local community groups and organizations related to recovery and wellness.

About KBRC
Kachemak Bay Recovery Connection (KBRC) is a recovery community organization (RCO) based in Homer, AK. Established in 2022, our independent, non-profit organization is peer-led and dedicated to supporting individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. We offer enhanced recovery navigation, a Recovery Community Center, sober social events, and advocacy to reduce stigma and discrimination.

Our Mission: Kachemak Bay Recovery Connection is a recovery community organization for people affected by addiction offering recovery support, access to resources, and fulfilling connection to a sober community from Ninilchik to Nanwalek.

Send resume to McKinzie Roedl or drop in person at 111 W Pioneer Ave