[Hiring] Peer Mentor @The Arc of Southside

Role Description

The peer mentor engages in face-to-face contact (in-person or via Zoom or other telecommunication applications) with individuals to discuss their specific interests and desired outcomes related to achieving greater independence and overcoming barriers.

• Explains community services and programs and suggests strategies to help individuals achieve their desired outcomes, particularly in living more independently, engaging in paid employment, and expanding social opportunities.
• Provides information from personal experiences to assist individuals in problem-solving, decision-making, developing supportive community relationships, and exploring community resources that promote increased independence and community integration.
• Assists individuals in developing a personal plan for accessing identified integrated community activities, supports, services, and/or resources.
• Provides support and skill building to individuals served by The Arc of Southside, as defined by each person’s Individual Support Plan.

Qualifications

• Completed Peer Mentor Training and successfully completed competencies.
• Past or present recipient of developmental disability services.
• Have lived independently in the community for at least 1 year.

Requirements

• Provide guidance, resources, and emotional support based on Mentee needs and goals.
• Plan with Mentees times to talk/meet and work on goals.
• Complete notes of Peer Mentor contact in a timely and accurate manner.
• Use preferred technology to connect with Mentee.
• Participate in Individual Support Plan meetings for Mentees.
• Ensure that the philosophy of individual choice is implemented and considered in programs and services.
• Represent The Arc in a professional manner within the community.
• Attend all meetings and training sessions, as required.

Competencies

• Supporting with Integrity: Exhibits ethical and moral behavior in everyday business conduct; earns trust by disclosing information and admitting mistakes; recognizes and resolves ethical questions; ensures organizational ethics are widely understood; encourages open discussion of ethical issues; creates an environment that rewards ethical behavior.
• Relationship Building: Builds rapport up, down, and across the organization; establishes collaborative relationships to achieve objectives; seeks win-win solutions to conflict; develops a network of professional contacts; displays empathy and tolerates diverse viewpoints.
• Communications: Clearly expresses ideas and thoughts verbally and in written form; exhibits good listening and comprehension; keeps others adequately informed; selects and uses appropriate communication methods.