Position Title:

Peer Support / Battle Buddy

Position Overview:

The Peer Support / Battle Buddy serves as an advocate and mentor for Veterans and Military Families (MilFam), delivering personalized support to empower clients and help them overcome barriers to success. This role involves outreach, program enrollment, resource navigation, and maintaining accurate documentation while promoting organizational programs and ensuring compliance with contractual obligations. The Peer Support / Battle Buddy also takes on liaison responsibilities for specialized groups, including Veteran Women and justice-involved Veterans, ensuring these specific populations receive tailored support to address their unique needs and challenges.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Client Support and Resource Navigation:
   • Identify, enroll, and assist Veterans and community members in accessing organizational programs.
   • Provide one-on-one and group-based peer mentoring to Veterans, focusing on empowerment, resource linkage, and emotional support.
   • Assist in navigating resources such as housing, employment, healthcare, and benefits.
   • Identify individual barriers to employment and assist participants in overcoming these challenges.
2. Program and Curriculum Promotion:
   • Promote curriculum sessions and track attendee participation and outcomes.
   • Monitor student/Veteran and course outcomes, ensuring alignment with program goals.
3. Outreach and Engagement:
   • Plan, coordinate, and participate in outreach activities such as telephone and mail campaigns, job fairs, community-based activities, and field marketing events.
   • Collaborate with career services to identify local employers for job placements for program participants.
4. Data Management and Compliance:
   • Maintain an outreach client information database and track referrals to programs.
   • Document case notes and maintain physical and digital files in compliance with confidentiality and HIPAA requirements.
   • Perform file maintenance, ensuring proper collection and secure storage of personal documents (e.g., ID, SSC, DD214, selective service, and right-to-work documentation).
   • Track participants referred for program entry and screening appointments, ensuring proper follow-up and outcomes tracking.
5. Administrative Support and Team Collaboration:
   • Handle intake, assessments, and enrollment documentation, including grievance forms and program agreements.
   • Participate in weekly corporate meetings and professional development sessions.
   • Collaborate with the team to ensure seamless service delivery and program success.
   • Perform additional duties as assigned to support organizational goals.

Liaison Duties:

As a Veteran Women Liaison and Juvenile & Integration Liaison, this position also includes the following specialized duties:

• Veteran Women Liaison:
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for Veteran Women, advocating for their unique needs and ensuring access to gender-specific services.
  • Offer mentorship and peer support tailored to women Veterans, focusing on issues such as mental health, family support, and career development.
  • Collaborate with community partners to create programs and events that address the specific challenges women Veterans face, including wellness retreats, support groups, and educational workshops.
  • Actively engage with external organizations and resources that support Veteran Women, ensuring comprehensive support and seamless coordination.
• Juvenile & Integration Liaison:
  • Act as a primary advocate for justice-involved Veterans, helping them navigate the transition from the juvenile justice system and reentry into civilian life.
  • Connect Veterans with reentry programs, legal assistance, housing services, and educational opportunities.
  • Serve as the liaison between Veterans and local community organizations, ensuring that Veterans have access to services that support reintegration, such as job training, counseling, and legal aid.
  • Help justice-involved Veterans access support services that will aid in rebuilding relationships, securing employment, and achieving long-term stability.

Training Requirement:

• The Battle Buddy is required to complete mandatory training that is essential to their role, including CalMHSA Peer Support Specialist Certification and any other relevant certifications or skills training.
• This training may be completed prior to employment or during the course of employment, depending on the specific requirements of the position and contractual obligations.
• VST will provide access to necessary training and cover any associated costs as part of the employee’s professional development.

Skills and Abilities:

1. Core Competencies:
   • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly and constructively to staff and clients.
   • Strong conflict resolution skills and the ability to maintain a constructive approach in challenging situations.
   • Proven ability to meet deadlines while managing multiple projects simultaneously.
   • Knowledge of federal and state laws governing Veteran services and employment.
   • Highly organized with the ability to maintain accurate records and manage data efficiently.
2. Technical Proficiency:
   • Proficient in using Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and client management systems such as HMIS.
   • Familiarity with tracking tools and databases for monitoring outcomes and compliance.
3. Interpersonal Skills:
   • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while independently managing responsibilities.
   • Experienced in motivating and training staff to ensure program follow-through and success.
   • Empathetic and culturally competent, with a strong commitment to serving Veterans and Military Families.

Qualifications:

1. Eligibility:
   • U.S. military Veteran or spouse of a U.S. Armed Forces member preferred.
   • CalMHSA Peer Support Specialist Certification (or willingness to complete within six months).
2. Experience:
   • At least three years of experience in outreach, peer support, or service coordination roles.
   • Familiarity with military culture and the challenges faced by Veterans.
3. Education:
   • High school diploma or equivalent required; advanced education or certifications preferred.
4. Additional Requirements:
   • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for outreach activities and events.
   • Commitment to adhering to organizational values and mission.

Training and Development:

1. Mandatory Trainings:
   • HIPAA Compliance Training to ensure the confidentiality of client information.
   • CalMHSA Certification to meet peer support standards.
   • Trauma-Informed Care and Psychological First Aid training for effective client support.
2. Ongoing Professional Development:
   • Regular participation in team meetings and workshops to stay updated on best practices.
   • Continuous improvement through advanced training programs and certification renewals.