Job Information
Valley Charities Inc. Reentry Program - Peer Support Specialist in Wasilla, Alaska
Reentry Program | Peer Support Specialist
INTRODUCTION
As a community-based program under the non-profit organization of Valley Charities Inc., the Mat Su Reentry Program assists individuals who are releasing from incarceration and reentering the community. The Mat Su Reentry Program works with returning citizens to successfully gain their own footing and become strong members of their community.
JOB SUMMARY
We are seeking a compassionate, motivated, and resilient Peer Support Specialist to join our Reentry Program team. This role is ideal for someone who has lived experience with substance use recovery and successful reintegration after incarceration, and who is passionate about helping others navigate similar journeys. You will play a critical role in empowering individuals, fostering hope, and supporting long-term recovery and stability.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Support and Mentoring
Provide emotional, social, and peer-based support to clients throughout their recovery and reentry journey.
Share personal experiences and practical coping strategies to inspire and guide clients.
Build trusting, respectful relationships that promote growth and accountability.
Individualized Services
Deliver personalized, client-centered support tailored to individual goals and needs.
Assist with daily living skills, goal setting, and progress toward successful community reintegration.
Help clients identify strengths and overcome barriers to stability in their reentry journey.
Advocacy
Serve as a strong advocate for clients by helping them access community resources and services.
Support clients in navigating systems such as housing, employment, healthcare, and social services.
Ensure clients voices are heard and respected within the community and service networks.
Documentation
Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential records of client interactions and progress.
Track services provided and connections made to community resources.
Ensure compliance with all confidentiality and program regulations.
PHYSICAL ABILITIES (SAMPLE)
- Must have valid driver's license with working vehicle and insurance.
- Must be able to sustain a full shift (4 to 8 hours depending on scheduled hours) of standing, walking, lifting, and driving.
- While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand and talk, or hear; use hands, and fingers (typing) or reach with hands, and arms.
- Employee is required to walk, climb stairs, and be able to move about freely.
- Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
MINMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Lived Experience
Personal experience with substance use recovery and reentry after incarceration is required.
Ability to use lived experience in a professional and supportive manner to build rapport and trust.
Certification
Completion of a Peer Support Specialist certification program (certificate required).
Communication Skills
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to effectively engage with clients and collaborate with the Reentry Team.
Empathy, Resilience and Respect
Demonstrated ability to empathize with clients challenges and barriers.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think creatively (outside the box).
Resilience and professionalism in emotionally challenging situations.
WHY JOIN US?
Make a meaningful impact in your community
Use your lived experience to create positive change
Be part of a supportive, mission-driven team
Flexible scheduling to support work-life balance
We value lived experience and believe it is a powerful tool for change. If you are passionate about helping others rebuild their lives, we encourage you to apply.
Employment Type: Part-Time (20-25 hours per week) Working Hours Monday hrough Friday (flexible hours, generally between 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM) Starting Wage: $21.50-$23.50 per hour (DOE)