Volunteer Peer Counselor

Volunteer Peer Counselor

Position Title: Volunteer Peer Counselor

Reports To: Program Manager / Program Director

Location: Community-Based / Virtual / Hybrid

Employment Type: Volunteer / Stipend (depending on program)

Position Summary

The Peer Counselor provides emotional support, guidance, and resource referrals to individuals within the community by drawing on shared life experiences and cultural understanding. The Peer Counselor helps participants navigate challenges related to health, wellness, education, employment, family support, and social services.

This role focuses on building trust, promoting empowerment, and supporting individuals in achieving personal goals while connecting them with community resources.

Key Responsibilities

Peer Support & Counseling

• Provide one-on-one peer support sessions to participants in a respectful and non-judgmental manner.
• Share lived experiences when appropriate to build trust and connection.
• Help participants develop coping strategies and problem-solving skills.

Community Resource Navigation

• Connect participants with community resources such as healthcare, housing, food assistance, education programs, and employment services.
• Provide accurate information about available programs and services.

Health & Wellness Education

• Provide basic education and guidance related to health, mental wellness, parenting, or other program-specific topics.
• Encourage healthy behaviors and self-advocacy.

Outreach & Engagement

• Participate in community outreach activities, workshops, and events.
• Support recruitment and engagement of program participants.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain confidential records of participant interactions and services provided.
• Complete required reports and program documentation.

Collaboration

• Work closely with program staff, case managers, and community partners.
• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and supervision sessions.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in social work, Public Health, Psychology, Counseling, or related field preferred.

Experience

• Lived experience related to the community or population served.
• Experience in peer support, community outreach, mentoring, or advocacy preferred.

Skills

• Strong listening and communication skills
• Ability to build trust and rapport
• Cultural humility and respect for diverse communities
• Problem-solving and resource navigation skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality

Preferred Qualifications

• Training in peer counseling, mental health first aid, or community health work.
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities.
• Experience working with underserved or marginalized communities.

Core Competencies

• Empathy and compassion
• Cultural competency
• Integrity and confidentiality
• Community engagement
• Advocacy and empowerment

Working Conditions

• Work may occur in community settings, offices, homes, or virtual environments.
• Some evening or weekend hours may be required for outreach events.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all Volunteers and participants. Individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women, people of color, and those with lived experiences relevant to the communities served, are strongly encouraged to apply.