Peer Support Street Outreach Worker

Purpose of Role

The Peer Support Street Outreach Worker plays a vital role in building trust and connection with youth experiencing homelessness. By drawing on lived experience, this position helps break down barriers, provides encouragement, and guides young people toward resources and opportunities for stability.

Position Summary

The Peer Support Street Outreach Worker will assist the YHDP (Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program) team in engaging and supporting youth experiencing or at risk of homelessness. This role focuses on building authentic, peer-based relationships, offering encouragement, and connecting individuals to services. The Outreach Worker will always work alongside a YHDP staff member and will not engage in outreach activities alone.

Key Responsibilities

• Accompany YHDP staff during street outreach to connect with youth experiencing homelessness.
  
  


• Use lived experience to provide peer support, encouragement, and understanding in a relatable way.
  
  


• Assist in distributing basic need items (e.g., hygiene kits, water, clothing, resource guides).
  
  


• Help connect youth to appropriate community resources, services, and housing opportunities.
  
  


• Share knowledge of youth experiences to strengthen engagement strategies and program effectiveness.
  
  


• Maintain professional boundaries and adhere to confidentiality standards.
  
  


• Participate in training and staff meetings as required.
  
  


• Document outreach activities accurately and in a timely manner, under the supervision of YHDP staff.
  
  

Qualifications

• Must be between the ages of 18–24 with lived experience of homelessness, housing instability, or related challenges.
  
  


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to connect with diverse youth populations.
  
  


• Reliable, punctual, and able to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.
  
  


• Commitment to working as part of a team and willingness to always partner with YHDP staff during outreach.
  
  


• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to professional boundaries.
  
  


• Willingness to participate in training related to street outreach, trauma-informed care, and peer support.
  
  

Work Environment & Conditions

• This is a part-time position (up to 20–25 hours per week, depending on need).
  
  


• Work is primarily conducted outdoors in various community settings.
  
  


• Must be able to walk, stand, and carry supplies during outreach activities.
  
  

Compensation

• Hourly wage: $15.00 per hour
  
  


• Part-time, non-benefit eligible position