Veterans Peer Specialist

Veterans Transitional Housing Program (VTHP) Peer Support Specialist

Program Type: VA Grant & Per Diem (GPD) – Transitional Housing

Director of Supportive Services

The Peer Support Specialist provides structured, peer‑based supportive services aligned with the VTHP goals and VA Grant and Per Diem (GPD) requirements. This role supports housing stability, encourages engagement in supportive services, promotes progress toward income and self‑sufficiency, and aids participants in preparing for permanent housing through lived‑experience‑informed support, encouragement, and referrals.

• Review program applications and schedule interviews based on screening questionnaires.
• Provide application updates during staff meetings to discuss enrollment progress.
• Promote recovery goals and participation through group and community activities.
• Offer crisis response, de‑escalation, and emergency coverage.
• Conduct inspections per state, federal, and VA GPD mandates to ensure safety and well‑being.
• Update the VTHP Resource Board bi-weekly with employment leads, fairs, and resources. Distribute bus passes for employment, appointments, and goal‑oriented tasks

• Provide supplies and document distribution using the Donation Tracking Spreadsheet.
• Verify weekly sign‑in sheets for accuracy per VA GPD requirements, resolve discrepancies, and upload finalized records by reporting and compliance deadlines.
• Submit supply orders with prior approval if needed.
• Maintain an Excel applicant tracking workbook with application status updates and notes to support VA GPD eligibility, intake, and documentation.
• Conduct quarterly room inspections, document concerns with designated forms, track corrective actions, and schedule follow‑ups.
• Track issued bus passes, ensuring expired passes are appropriately managed.

• Facilitate weekly House Meetings to share program updates, address concerns, and inform participants.
• Plan and lead Skills Group sessions with approved materials and input to support life skills, complying with VA GPD standards.
• Organize community activities aligned with VA GPD to promote engagement and wellness.
• Engage with community members during scheduled onsite group tours.
• Coordinate veteran community presenters, guest speakers, or alumni storytelling during scheduled groups or meetings to promote quarterly community engagement opportunities.

• Participate in supervision, training, and compliance activities.
• Collaborate with staff, VA partners, and community providers.

Candidates must be skilled in Microsoft Office for applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. They should also be able to find resources to help participants with tasks such as filling out applications, writing resumes, enrolling in benefits, and obtaining exam access.

• Strong reading and writing skills are essential.
• Provide references and pass background checks aligned with position requirements.
• Must be capable of lifting to 25 pounds if necessary.
• Proficiency with Word and Excel spreadsheets is required for this position to meet the program's documentation and record‑keeping requirements.

Prior military experience and a history of homelessness are desirable for this position. Peer support training and certification are strongly recommended; however, paid peer support training will be available upon hire. We are also looking for applicants with experience working directly with homeless populations or within the community in a supportive services capacity.

An associate's degree or prior training within the human services field is desired, or equivalent hands‑on work experience providing veteran services.