Summary

The Recovery Peer Support Group Facilitator is responsible for leading peer support groups for individuals in recovery and their family members. The role involves providing guidance, fostering an open and supportive environment, sharing personal experiences, and facilitating discussions that promote healing, coping, and personal growth. The facilitator guides group meetings, offering support, opportunities for connection, learning and education opportunities, and structure to individuals in their journey of recovery. This is a contracted role for 6 weeks with potential for extended contract work based on the success of the initial 6 weeks of the program. The group will meet once per week in the evening at 6:30-8:00pm (final dates to be determined based on schedule of the group facilitator).

Stipend Information

• $700 stipend, paid in two installments at the 3- and 6-week mark of the contract
• Anticipated workload of 3-4 hours per week, including weekly 90-minute group meetings

Essential Functions/Approximate Time

Facilitate Peer Support Group Meetings (70%):

• Lead group discussions, offering support and encouragement to participants
• Promote an environment of trust, respect, and open communication
• Encourage active participation while maintaining a balanced and inclusive conversation
• Share recovery experiences to provide hope and understanding
• Offer guidance on coping strategies and recovery tools
• Empathetically listen to the challenges of others while providing validation and encouragement

Ensure Group Structure in a Safe and Supportive Environment (10%):

• Maintain group structure by adhering to the scheduled topics and ensuring the discussion stays focused and productive
• Ensure confidentiality and trust among group members
• Manage any conflicts or challenging behaviors in a professional and respectful manner

Promote Recovery Service and Educational Resources (10%):

• Share community resources, workshops, or opportunities for additional support
• Assist participants in connecting with local recovery programs, counselors, or other supportive services with the support of JFCS Addiction and Recovery Services Coordinator
• Provide educational information related to recovery and wellness

Documentation and Progress Reporting to JFCS Staff (10%):

• Keep accurate records of relevant information for the successful functioning of the group
• Prepare reports as necessary, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and guidelines
• Maintain weekly progress meetings with JFCS staff to provide any progress reports that would need their attention and support

Education and Licensing

• Certification as a Peer Support Specialist (or willingness to obtain certification) or a licensed therapist with extensive knowledge of addiction and recovery
• Certification in Mental Health First Aid or similar training

Experience

• Personal experience in recovery (from addiction, mental health issues, or similar conditions)
• Knowledge of recovery principles, processes, and resources
• Previous experience facilitating groups or leading support sessions
• Ability to integrate elements of Judaism and Jewish values while creating a welcoming environment for all people
• Knowledge of community resources related to addiction and mental health recovery

Skills and Qualities

• Strong written and oral communication and active listening skills
• Empathy, patience, and the ability to work with diverse populations
• Ability to maintain boundaries while providing support and guidance
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to relate to people from various backgrounds
• Ability to stay calm and maintain professionalism in stressful situations
• Ability to provide constructive feedback and foster positive relationships within the group
• Organizational skills and the ability to manage time effectively
• Sincere commitment to consistently reflecting JFCS’s Values: compassion; inclusion; innovation; integrity; and collaboration

Work Environment/Physical Demands

Combination of sitting, standing and walking, bending and stooping, etc., mostly in an office environment. Light lifting (10 - 15 lbs.) to bring materials from place to place. Ability to be present at in-person meetings and communicate via email, phone and Teams. Group meetings may take place in community centers, recovery facilities, or other supportive environments. Must provide own transportation to meetings and for transporting event materials and supplies. Familiarity with general office equipment.

Additional Information

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

JFCS serves and employs people of all cultures and faith traditions and highly values inclusion and diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.