Peer Outreach Specialist

Job Description

Harbor is seeking a Peer Outreach Specialist to join our Toledo team! The Peer Outreach Specialist functions as a peer outreach worker and assists Harbor LGBTQ+ Wellness and Connection staff in carrying out program activities. This person utilizes lived experience, active listening, and affirming peer support practices to foster belonging, resilience, and wellness in the community.

Position is contingent, working 20‑29 hours per week, and will require some evenings and weekends.

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Lived experience as an LGBTQ+ individual and/or with navigating mental health, recovery, or substance use concerns.
• Must possess the skills necessary to help participants achieve and maintain wellness, community connection, and successful navigation of affirming resources.
• Must have the ability to offer a unique peer perspective informed by lived experience and ongoing commitment to personal well‐being.
• Must be proficient in computer use, including Microsoft Word and electronic documentation.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, acceptable driving record, and proof of personal auto insurance to be deemed insurable with Harbor’s vehicle insurance carrier.
• CPR/First Aid and NCI/CPI certification required within 90 days of employment.

• Client Support & Wellness
  • Provide peer‑based emotional support, active listening, and guidance for LGBTQ+ individuals navigating wellness, recovery, and substance use.
  • Use lived experience to help clients build resilience, coping strategies, and affirming social networks.
  • Facilitate or co‑facilitate groups, sober social events, and wellness activities.
  • Model healthy boundaries, communication, and self‑care.
  • Support participants in developing individualized wellness, harm reduction, or recovery plans, including education and consultation for clients and their chosen family.
• Cultural Navigation & Resource Connection
  • Assist clients in identifying and accessing affirming resources (healthcare, housing, employment, etc.).
  • Help individuals navigate systems that may feel unsafe or unfamiliar, providing advocacy and support.
  • Maintain resource lists of LGBTQ+ affirming providers, assist with referrals, and complete related documentation as needed.
• Community Engagement
  • Conduct outreach across community spaces, campuses, and events to connect individuals with Harbor programs.
  • Represent Harbor at Pride, tabling events, and health fairs, helping build welcoming and affirming spaces.
  • Support event promotion through social media, flyers, and in‑person engagement.
• Professional Development
  • Engage in ongoing training in peer support, harm reduction, trauma‑informed practice, and LGBTQ+ wellness needs.
  • Stay informed on best practices and demonstrate ongoing skill development within the role.

• Maintain client confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA requirements.
• Work cooperatively with a variety of service providers, community partners, and Harbor staff.
• Provide culturally competent, LGBTQ+‑affirming services.
• Seek supervision when client needs exceed knowledge, experience, or scope of peer practice.
• Address travel between multiple sites and outreach locations as needed.
• Types and complete documentation according to Harbor standards.
• May provide billable services and may be required to meet agency productivity expectations.
• Work closely and cooperatively with a variety of service providers in the community and within Harbor.
• Be highly visible within the community and the agency, possessing solid knowledge of agency services and skills to secure services when not available in the agency.
• Keep current with trends and developments related to essential job competencies and demonstrate continued growth.

• A leading provider of mental health and substance use treatment for over 100 years.
• 350+ clinical staff serving over 24,000 clients annually across multiple locations and within the community.
• Services include counseling, medication management, primary care, psychological testing, case management, substance use treatment, residential services, vocational programs, and more.

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement plan with company match
• Generous paid time off, sick time, and paid holidays
• Tuition and professional license reimbursement programs
• Clinical supervision hours offered
• Opportunity to make a difference in your community