Peer Engagement Specialist Cep Comm Hub

**Peer Engagement Specialist Coordinated Entry Program Communication Hub**

For over 50 years the Distress Centre has served Calgary and Southern Alberta, providing 24-hour crisis support, information, and resources at no cost. Distress Centre does not define crisis. We do not judge. Anyone can call us day or night.

**_Job Objective_**

The Peer Engagement Specialist is a key member of the Communication Hub, providing peer-led support to individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness. This role focuses on building trust, fostering relationships, and empowering participants to navigate systems, access resources, and achieve their personal goals. By offering peer-informed care and collaborating with the Hub team and community partners, the Peer Engagement Specialist plays a vital role in creating a supportive and inclusive environment.

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Duties_**

**Peer Engagement Specialist - Housing & Communication Hub (80%)**
- Provide peer support, actively engaging with participants to build rapport and trust through shared lived experiences.
- Offer information, referrals, and assistance with accessing resources, encouraging recovery care planning and goal achievement.
- Engage with frequent visitors, fostering ongoing support and building lasting connections.
- Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment within the Hub, ensuring person-centered care.
- Support participants in navigating complex systems and overcoming barriers to stability.
- Collaborate with the Hub Coordinator and community partners to deliver comprehensive, tailored support.
- Encourage participant engagement in Hub programming and activities that promote personal growth and stability.
- Respond to participants in crisis using a trauma-informed approach, providing immediate support and connecting them with appropriate services.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date participant records, ensuring data integrity and compliance with consent protocols.
- Contribute to data collection and program evaluation efforts to support continuous improvement.
- Engage in ongoing learning to enhance peer support skills, knowledge of community resources, and cultural competency.

**SORCe Frontline Service Delivery (20%)**
- Collaborate and coordinate with all agencies at SORCe, as well as the Crossroads Collaborative, in the effective delivery of collaborative programs and services.
- Support intake, engagement, triage and lobby management as required.
- _All program staff at SORCe share responsibility for portions of the participant flow_
- Training and Mentoring (as needed)
- The Distress Centre takes on practicum students year-round. Where required, assist with the supervision, training, and development of practicum students.

**SORCe General (as needed)**
- Collaborate and coordinate with all agencies at SORCe and the Crossroads Collaborative to effectively deliver collaborative programs and services.
- The duties and responsibilities outlined above are representative but not all-inclusive—other related duties as required._

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Qualifications and Requirements_**
- Completion of a recognized peer support training program and ongoing participation in the Peer Support Community of Practice (CMHA) are required.
- Direct experience with housing instability, homelessness, or navigating support systems is essential and highly valued.
- Minimum two years’ experience (work or volunteer) supporting diverse and marginalized populations, particularly those experiencing homelessness.
- Experience in group facilitation, or participant engagement is preferred.
- Training in crisis intervention is an asset, or willingness to complete relevant training upon hire is necessary.
- Knowledge of or experience with Indigenous culture, supporting Indigenous individuals, and related social services is an asset.
- Knowledge of or willingness to learn participant data management systems.
- Willingness to share one’s personal experiences to support others in their recovery journey.

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Skills/Abilities:_**
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and time management skills.
- Adaptable communication to suit different audiences and learning styles.
- Flexibility to address unexpected changes, including technological or logístical challenges.
- Proficiency or ability to learn Microsoft Office and other relevant program software.
- Awareness of universal precautions and readiness to complete specialized training applicable to individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health, or addictions.
- Experience Working with a multi-disciplinary team is an asset
- Familiarity with Calgary’s community resources and the SORCe collaborative is an asset.

**_ Core Competencies:_**

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Client/Service Centred Work_**: you make clients the ultimate focus of our agency, team, and individual choices and actions.

**_ Partnerships, Relationships, &