Title of Position: Peer Coordinator - Growing Strong
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Department: Innovative Programs
Reports to: Director, Growing Strong
Salary: $26.37/hr
Positions Reporting to this Position: N/A
Purpose of the Position:
Since its founding to provide emergency shelter to four homeless women and their children, Win has grown into the largest provider of family shelter and supportive housing in New York City. Win offers transitional shelter housing and permanent supportive housing that’s coupled with programs and services developed to support long-term housing stability. All of Win’s services are guided by its mission – to transform the lives of New York City homeless families and their children by providing the safe housing, critical services, and the ground-breaking programs they need to succeed on their own – so the parents can regain their independence and their children can look forward to a brighter future.
The Peer Coordinator of Growing Strong is a new and exciting role at Win. Growing Strong is a direct cash plus peer support pilot program and research partnership between Win and Vanderbilt University. The program will provide peer support and monthly stipends to mothers and babies both at Win shelters and in the community.
The Peer Coordinator will support mothers with babies as they exit shelter, settle in the community and promote habits that lead to healthy babies and families. Peer advocates use their lived experiences to establish relationships built on trust and empathy to help mothers accomplish their goals.
Responsibilities:
Serve as a source of support for mothers experiencing homelessness
Coach mothers in areas of self-efficacy and advocacy, financial empowerment, mental and emotional health
Advocate for the rights and needs in and outside the shelter to ensure the mothers are getting the support they need to overcome challenges.
Work with mothers to leverage the unconditional cash transfers as an additional asset to assist in moving out of shelter
Assist in the navigation services and resources such as employment, financial coaching, mental health and childcare
Share resources and refer mothers to needed services including doula, mental health, financial coaching, job training, early intervention and other services that support a healthy baby and family unit.
Connects mothers to evidence-based programs such as Centering Pregnancy, Maternal and Infant Community Health Collaboratives Initiative (MICHC) and Nurse Family Partnership (NFP).
Conducts peer support groups and activities in the community to promote connection with other mothers in the program
Maintains confidential reports on the interactions, progress and outcomes of the mother
Conducts home and community visits
Essential Functions:
Must be able to travel to Win sites, meetings, and trainings throughout New York City.
Must be able to sit at a computer for long periods of the work day.
Qualifications:
High school or equivalent required.
Peer Advocates who have completed or are completing training/certification are encouraged to apply
Demonstrated shared experiences with mothers in shelter including history of homelessness as the mother of a baby is required
Familiarity with resources in NYC that support mothers and babies
Experience working with families and issues of domestic violence and homelessness
Familiarity with the NYC shelter system, rental assistance and entitlements is preferred
Ability to maintain confidentiality and clear boundaries
Willingness and ability to maintain a non-traditional work schedule and respond to the needs of the mother in an expeditious manner
Ability to travel within the city to do home and community visits
Strong communication skills and a non-judgemental positive attitude
Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Bilingual – English/Spanish proficiency a plus.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, and general Internet and electronic communications
Commitment to Win’s mission, vision, and values
Core Competencies:
Leadership: Sets an example by following Win policies and procedures. Acts with a high degree of professionalism and has a good work ethic.
Facilitating Change: Delivers high quality results consistently. Seeks to learn new skills and participates in professional development.
Managing Performance: Works effectively with peers and interacts respectfully with clients and coworkers. Participates actively in team meetings. Demonstrates empathy.
Applying and Developing Expertise: Demonstrates depth of knowledge and skill and applies technical knowledge to solve a range of problems.
Communicating and Collaborating: Understands and embodies the values and mission of Win. Keeps the manager informed about progress and problems.
WIN’S DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION HIRING COMMITMENT
Our most effective service to our community comes from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds and experience. As a result, we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment. Win actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status or any other protected category under federal, state and local law.