Peer Support Specialist HERO Program (Monday - Friday, 9 am - 5 pm)

About the position Mental Health Connecticut (MHC) is a statewide not for profit provider agency that partners with individuals, their families, and the surrounding communities to create environments that support long-term health and wellness. MHC has an immediate full-time opening (Monday - Friday 900 am - 500 pm) for a Peer Empowering Recovery Opportunities (HERO) Support Specialist within the Waterbury/Torrington area. The HERO Program is a DMHAS-led initiative funded by the Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee (OSAC), aimed at supporting individuals in recovery from opioid use disorder (OUD). The program provides housing subsidies and intensive case management to individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability who are at risk of opioid overdose or transitioning out of recovery or treatment programs. This position will act as a mentor and liaison to HERO participants and/or the families of participants struggling with opioid and other substance use that has a high incidence of overdose. The position assists individuals in day-to-day activities to promote recovery in the community as well as providing resources for family members in need of such assistance.

Responsibilities

• Provide outreach, support, coaching, and follow-up services to individuals participating in the HERO program.
• Provide emotional support for participants, individually and during support group sessions.
• Act as peer advocates for services or resources that meet individual needs and preferences.
• Serve as a source of hope and support and act as role model to individuals participating in the HERO Program.
• Work closely with HERO program staff to ensure individuals participating in the HERO program are receiving appropriate support.
• Orient participants to the program and encourage and support participants in continued participation in the program.
• Aid in participant understanding of rules, regulations, and expectations of the HERO program.
• Engage participants in recovery-oriented activities such as clinical support, social support, etc.
• Organize and facilitate psycho-educational groups as needed.
• Identify and refer individuals to appropriate community supports and resources while advocating for and supporting individual centered preferences.
• Follow up with participants regarding resources related to housing, employment, and any additional treatment options.
• Willing and able to drive a personal vehicle locally and within the state. May be required to transport individuals in personal vehicle.
• Operate in a harm reduction approach.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• CCAR Recovery Coach certificate required.
• Experience with addiction recovery process required.
• Valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and vehicle insurance. Nice-to-haves
• RSS certification preferred.

Benefits

• Medical and Dental (Cost share of premiums split 90/10 for employee only and 80/20 for employee + dependents)
• Voluntary Vision
• Company paid Life and Long Term Disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 403(b) Retirement Plan (company match is dollar for every dollar contributed, up to 6%)
• Generous paid time off policy including 11 agency observed holidays, sick time, vacation time, and wellness days