Breastfeeding Peer Helper

This position gives basic breastfeeding information and encouragement to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.

Responsibilities

POSITION ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Receives a caseload of WIC mothers and makes routine periodic contacts with all mothers assigned.

2. Gives basic breastfeeding information and support to new mothers, including telling them about the benefits of breastfeeding, overcoming common barriers, and getting a good start with breastfeeding. Helps mothers prevent and handle common breastfeeding concerns.

3. Counsels WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers by telephone, in-person, and/or hospital visits at scheduled intervals determined by the local WIC program.

4. Adheres to all confidentiality requirements, including HIPAA.

5. Refers mothers, according to clinic-established protocols, to appropriate organizations, groups, and partners.

6. Attends and assists with prenatal classes and breastfeeding support groups.

7. Assists WIC staff in promoting the breastfeeding peer program through outreach events, special projects, and duties as assigned.

8. Adheres to PHAB core competencies including, but not limited to: 2.2.5, 3.2.1, 3.2.4, 3.4.2, 5.2.3, 6.3.2, 7.4.3, 7.11.2.

9. Participates in quality improvement efforts and achieving PHAB accreditation requirements. This position will be responsible for using quality improvement (QI) processes and/or techniques to improve the effectiveness of the assigned public health program.

10. Attends and participates in conferences, seminars, trainings, or related education classes as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school graduate or equivalent.

• Has breastfed or provided their own expressed human milk to at least one baby (does not have to be currently breastfeeding.

• Ability to work effectively with other staff and leadership.
• Ability to listen and advocate for a participant.
• Ability to problem solve common breastfeeding barriers.
• Knowledge of basic breastfeeding principles.

• Completes levels 1 and 2 of the FNS WIC Breastfeeding Curriculum 6 months after hired.

• Must have and maintain throughout employment a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and be insurable under the Lucas County Commissioners’ Risk Management.