Peer Specialist at VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA SOUTH CENTRAL LOUISIANA

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionTitle: Consumer Advocate, Supportive ServicesSummaryTo provide peer support to people living with HIV(PLWH) and their families to promote increased client involvement in their medical care.Position Type Full or Part- Time, Non-ExemptEssential Functions Meet with newly diagnosed and out of care clients to provide peer support Provide follow-up to new clients once they have been assigned a case manager. Assist clients in navigating the HIV system of care Conduct ongoing contact with clients, including phone and face-to-face visits with clients Maintain and submit required documentation. Work collaboratively with staff to plan and implement client-centered supports. Participate in all appropriate meetings, including community meetings on client’s behalf Promote medical and treatment adherence and increased involvement with self-care by accompanying clients on medical appointments Encourage community involvement. Follow all guidelines & procedures related to EZ Labor (clocking in & out, reviewing timecard, requesting edit sheets, etc) Report any significant concerns to supervisor Maintain training requirements Projects and duties as assigned CompetenciesCommunication ProficiencyAccountability for OthersBalanced Decision MakingLeading OthersFlexibilityInitiativeAnalysis of DataProblem Management Supervisory Responsibility NoneRequired Education and ExperienceHigh School diploma or equivalent preferred. Must be a previous or current client of Ryan White or eligible for Ryan White services and be willing to share HIV status and life experiences with clients. Good writing, verbal and time management skills a plus. This position requires local travel; therefore, a valid driver’s license and proof of current vehicle insurance are required.Must complete a minimum of 16 hours of HIV specific training within the first six months of employment and 40 hours of training every year.Physical DemandsWhile performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit, use hands, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee can sometimes be exposed to weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Other DutiesPlease note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.Volunteers of America South Central Louisiana, Inc. offers a comprehensive benefit package to include: Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance, 403-B Pension Plan, Short and Long Term Disability Insurances, Life Insurance, paid annual holidays, Vacation and Sick leave.Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, Volunteers of America South Central Louisiana, Inc. considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any legally protected status. We will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship.