Volunteer Position: Young Adults Peer Mentor

Join to apply for the Volunteer:
Young Adults Peer Mentor role at Our Ark.

Volunteer Position: Young Adults Peer Mentor

The Young Adults Peer Mentor plays a vital role in providing support and guidance to homeless street youth and young adult individuals facing various challenges. This position requires a compassionate and empathetic individual who can effectively connect with and assist youth in navigating their struggles. The Young Adults Peer Mentor will serve as a mentor, advocate, and role model, helping young individuals develop resilience and improve their overall well-being.

The goal of the Youth Peer Program is to engage and empower young adults to work through challenges they may face living with a disability, mental health, or substance abuse disorder. Young Adults Peer Mentors are provided to youth and young adults up to 26 years of age, depending on individual needs. They are supported one-on-one by trained Youth Peer Support Specialists in various settings.

The role involves sharing lived experiences to reduce stigma and increase youth voice and ownership of services.

• Provide peer support through active listening, empathy, and understanding.
• Promote mental health awareness and educate on coping mechanisms.
• Maintain accurate records of interactions and progress.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team for comprehensive care.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development.
• Adhere to ethical guidelines and confidentiality standards.

• Deep understanding of challenges faced by young individuals.
• Strong communication skills, verbal and written.
• Ability to build rapport with diverse backgrounds.
• Maintain professional boundaries while building relationships.
• Good judgment, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of community resources for support.
• Commitment to continuous learning and growth in youth counseling.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed.

• Support medical issues, educational needs, casework, and appointments.
• Ensure sanitary conditions, including cleaning and laundry.
• Manage supported behavior using the Integrated Social Parental Approach Model.
• Participate in educational, recreational, and enrichment activities.
• Work from a strength-based, trauma-informed perspective.
• Intervene during emergencies to ensure safety.

Our Ark is a nonprofit working with homeless youth and young adults in Thurston County, WA. We aim to help street youth create paths to success and end youth homelessness. Join us and be a champion for youth in our community.