Peer Support Specialist - Shelter Programs

About Community Crisis Services, Inc.

Community Crisis Services, Inc. (CCSI) has served Prince George's County for over 50 years, providing compassionate crisis support through our hotlines, safe shelter programs, and information and referral services. We are the lead Victim Services Provider for Prince George's County and a leading homeless services provider, operating the county's only non-congregate low-barrier shelter. Our 24/7 services include the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988), crisis hotlines, domestic violence services, emergency shelters, and housing programs.

CCSI is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe that lived experience is a valuable qualification and encourage individuals with personal experience navigating homelessness and housing systems to apply.

Position Summary

The Peer Support Specialist provides direct support to individuals and families experiencing homelessness at the Warm Nights Shelter and Family Emergency Shelter programs. Drawing on their personal lived experience of homelessness, housing instability, or related challenges, the Peer Support Specialist serves as a role model, mentor, and advocate-helping shelter guests navigate the housing system, access resources, and build the skills and confidence needed to achieve stable housing.

This position works collaboratively with case managers, shelter staff, and community partners to deliver trauma-informed, person-centered services that meet the unique needs of each guest. The Peer Support Specialist embodies CCSI's mission by offering compassionate crisis support and connecting those in need to services.

* Candidates must be able to participate in and complete mandatory orientation and onboarding requirements.

Reports to: Shelter Manager

Employment Status:

• Full-time (40 hours)
• Part-time (20-31 hours)

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

Location: Warm Nights Shelter (Beltsville, MD)/Family Emergency Shelter

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Peer Support Services (60%)

• Provide one-on-one peer support to shelter guests, using personal lived experience to build rapport, instill hope, and model recovery
• Facilitate peer support groups focused on topics such as housing readiness, life skills, stress management, and goal-setting
• Share personal recovery story appropriately to reduce stigma and demonstrate that housing stability is achievable
• Help guests identify strengths, set goals, and develop individualized action plans
• Assist guests in navigating systems, including housing, benefits, healthcare, and employment services
• Provide emotional support during crisis moments, utilizing de-escalation techniques and trauma-informed approaches
• Accompany guests to appointments as needed (housing interviews, benefits offices, medical appointments)
• Support guests in developing daily living skills, including budgeting, meal planning, and time management

Collaboration and Communication (25%)

• Participate in regular team meetings and case conferences with case managers and shelter staff
• Document guest interactions, progress, and concerns in accordance with program requirements
• Communicate effectively with the multidisciplinary team to ensure coordinated service delivery
• Connect guests with internal CCSI services, including the Crisis Call Center, Domestic Violence Services, and housing programs
• Build and maintain relationships with community partners and external service providers
• Provide feedback to program leadership on guest needs, barriers, and program improvement opportunities

Shelter Operations Support (15%)

• Assist with shelter intake and orientation processes for new guests
• Support a safe, welcoming, and respectful shelter environment
• Help maintain common areas and ensure shelter guidelines are followed
• Participate in shelter activities and community-building events
• Assist during emergency situations in accordance with shelter protocols
• Provide coverage during peak times and as needed for program continuity

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or GED required
• Peer Support Specialist certification (or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire) required
• Additional training in mental health, substance use, or housing services preferred

Experience

• Lived experience of homelessness, housing instability, or related challenges is required
• Minimum of 2 years in stable housing and personal recovery
• At least 1 year of experience providing peer support, mentoring, or human services preferred
• Experience working with diverse populations, including families, individuals with disabilities, and those with mental health or substance use challenges preferred

Skills and Competencies

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build trusting relationships
• Demonstrated understanding of recovery principles and person-centered approaches
• Knowledge of community resources for housing, healthcare, employment, and benefits
• Ability to maintain appropriate boundaries while sharing lived experience
• Cultural humility and the ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds
• Basic computer skills, including email, data entry, and electronic documentation
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Crisis intervention and de-escalation skills
• Commitment to CCSI's mission and values

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods
• Ability to climb stairs in multi-story shelter facilities
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally
• Ability to communicate clearly in person and by telephone
• Ability to travel between shelter locations and to community appointments

Work Environment and Schedule

• This position operates in a 24/7 emergency shelter environment serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness
• Schedule may include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on program needs
• Regular exposure to the shelter setting, which may include guests in crisis, varying noise levels, and shared living spaces
• May require travel within Prince George's County to accompany guests to appointments or attend community meetings
• Position is primarily on-site; limited remote work may be available for documentation and training

Additional Requirements

• Must successfully complete a background check, including fingerprinting, in accordance with CCSI policy
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred
• Must complete all required training, including but not limited to:
  • CCSI New Employee Orientation
  • Trauma-Informed Care
  • Crisis Intervention
  • Suicide Prevention (QPR or equivalent)
  • Mandated Reporter Training
  • HIPAA and Confidentiality
  • CPR and First Aid (within 90 days of hire)

Benefits

• Benefits (Part-time):
  • Paid time off (vacation, sick, personal days)
  • Holiday Premium Pay
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • AFLAC
  • Perks at Work
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Peer Support certification, support and ongoing supervision
• Benefits (Full-time):
  • All of the above
  • Company Paid Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Disability & Life Insurance

Work Conditions

• Holidays, evenings, and weekend coverage required, depending on scheduled shifts.
• Hours are flexible to meet program needs.
• Potential exposure to highly emotional and stressful situations.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Community Crisis Services provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.