We named our company firsthand because we believe that lived, or “firsthand,” experience is invaluable for gaining trust and building meaningful relationships. Because of that, we have many Peer Recovery Specialists that play a critical role in both outreach and engagement, supporting individuals living with SMI to achieve and maintain both behavioral and physical wellness. Internally, we refer to this important role as a firsthand Guide (fG). While our fGs in many markets ably support these individuals with the initial outreach and long term engagement within our care model, we are introducing a new role: an Outreach Specialist (oS).

Our Outreach Specialists carry much of the same expertise as a Peer Recovery Specialist, however they will focus uniquely on making outreach to our newest individuals – and ensuring they get connected to their local fG. This is a role that will be performed entirely telephonically or remotely. The oS will partner closely with the firsthand care team to drive long term engagement into our care model – working closely with our local Managers of Community Operations (MCOs) and local fGs. They will act as the point of contact to make the initial outreach, ultimately ensuring they understand the firsthand care model, and are connected to their local team to engage longitudinally.

As an OS, you will:

• Perform initial and ongoing telephonic outreach to our individuals and community providers
• Support individuals health needs by scheduling appointments with the local team, such as an initial engagement session
• Build trust and relationships by addressing immediate needs and empowering individuals to identify and pursue personal recovery goals by teaching them about the firsthand care model
• Serve as the primary point-of-contact, using advanced engagement techniques to facilitate ongoing connection and engagement in supportive services
• Provide timely and thorough documentation of encounters and participate in case reviews and team collaboration, as needed
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development
• Understand that as firsthand learns and grows, your role will constantly evolve. This job description represents many key elements of this role, but they are subject to change

OSs should have:

• Empathy, compassion, and approachability 
• Excellent listening, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Personal knowledge of recovery and/or behavioral health 
• Patience, persistence and a desire to help individuals experiencing SMI and/or SUD on their wellness journey
• Comfort working collaboratively within multidisciplinary team
• Demonstrated mastery with technical tools like smart phones, email, messaging services, and apps
• Openness to receiving feedback and a commitment to professional growth

The required experience you bring to this role includes:

Lived experience with SMI and/or SUD and recovery.

• State Peer Recovery certification, or eligibility and willingness to obtain certification within six (6) months of employment
• Team members will complete a paid training period prior to serving individuals and must pass assessments to move forward. 

Bonus points for:

• Experience with direct in-person outreach and engagement for individuals with SMI and SUD
• Expertise in recovery education and coaching
• Understanding of whole health and trauma-informed approaches to peer support
• Familiarity with local community resources, behavioral health systems, and the criminal justice system (e.g., mental health and drug courts)
• Eagerness to expand knowledge about a broad range of health conditions
• Valid driver’s license in good standing, with the ability to operate a vehicle (company vehicle may be provided) and eligibility to drive under the company’s insurance policy
• Interest in gaining a Community Health Worker (CHW) Credential after hire, or already holds one