Peer Engagement Specialist CEP

Salary Range: $50,000.00 To $52,000.00 Annually

Peer Engagement Specialist Coordinated Entry Program

Full Time

Starting at: $50,000-$52,000 based on experience and qualifications

Work location: On-site - 1944 10TH AVE. SW.

Hours: 8:30AM-4:30PM with a one-hour lunch break

• Working in a fast-paced crisis environment requires de-escalation skills.
• Universal precautions knowledge and ability to complete specialized training applicable to service delivery.

• Vacation starting at 3 weeks
• Extended health and dental benefits
• RRSP matching and Health Spending Account
• Access to on-site gym at no cost
• Paid development days and a staff development fund
• A supportive, mission-driven workplace making a real community impact

For over 50 years, Distress Centre has served Calgary and Southern Alberta by providing 24-hour crisis support, information, and resources at no cost. Distress Centre does not define crisis. We do not judge. Anyone can call us day or night.

We are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive workplace where people are valued and where employees experience a sense of belonging and are confident to be their best and most authentic selves. We welcome and encourage applications from Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, and members of equity-deserving groups. We value all the ways that our community is diverse – in identity, experience and perspective.

About SORCe and Distress Centre Programs:

Distress Centre Calgary (DCC) delivers the Coordinated Entry Program (CEP) providing intake, assessment, and referral services that connect participants to housing and other essential supports. CEP staff focus on system navigation and service delivery, including applications, referrals, and follow-up.

The Peer Engagement Specialist is a key member of the Communication Hub, providing peer-led support to individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness. This role focuses on building trust, fostering relationships, and empowering participants to navigate systems, access resources, and achieve their personal goals. By offering peer-informed care and collaborating with the Hub team and community partners, the Peer Engagement Specialist plays a vital role in creating a supportive and inclusive environment.

Key Outcomes:

• Progress toward housing stability and system integration, participants receive effective system navigation, referrals, and follow-through that reduce barriers to housing and supports, strengthen coordination with CHF-funded programs and community partners, and support movement toward housing placement, stability, and improved wellbeing.
• Support with facilitating workshops aimed towards participant goal setting, resume building, interview preparation, and support with housing and financial applications, ensure resources are up to date, and connect with participants with a lived experience perspective.

What You’ll Do

Peer Engagement Specialist – Housing & Communication Hub (80%)

• Provide peer support, actively engaging with participants to build rapport and trust through shared lived experiences.
• Offer information, referrals, and assistance with accessing resources, encouraging recovery care planning and goal achievement.
• Engage with frequent visitors, fostering ongoing support and building lasting connections.
• Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment within the Hub, ensuring person-centered care.
• Support participants in navigating complex systems and overcoming barriers to stability.
• Collaborate with the Hub Coordinator and community partners to deliver comprehensive, tailored support.
• Encourage participant engagement in Hub programming and activities that promote personal growth and stability.
• Respond to participants in crisis using a trauma-informed approach, providing immediate support and connecting them with appropriate services.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date participant records, ensuring data integrity and compliance with consent protocols.
• Contribute data collection and program evaluation efforts to support continuous improvement.
• Engage in ongoing learning to enhance peer support skills, knowledge of community resources, and cultural competency.

SORCeFrontline Service Delivery(20%)

• Collaborate and coordinate with all agencies at SORCe in the effective delivery of collaborative programs and services.
• Support intake, engagement, triage, and lobby management as required.

* All program staff atSORCeshare responsibility for portions of the participant flow

• Training and Mentoring (as needed)
• The Distress Centre takes on practicum forstudentsyear-round. Where required,assist with the supervision, training, and development of practicum students.

SORCeGeneral (as needed)

• Collaborate and coordinate with all agencies atSORCe
• Collaborative to effectively deliver collaborative programs and services.

This list highlights core responsibilities and is not exhaustive. Additional related duties may arise over time and will be discussed and supported by your supervisor.