Job Description

The

Veterans Affairs Housing Program

at Pathways to Housing DC provides comprehensive support to veterans experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, and substance use disorders. This program is committed to the Housing First model and integrates behavioral health services with housing placement and stabilization efforts. The

Peer Specialist

plays a vital role in engaging veterans through shared lived experience, fostering trust, and supporting recovery and reintegration into the community.

This position is part of a multidisciplinary team that works closely with the

Department of Veterans Affairs

,

DC Department of Behavioral Health

, and other community partners to ensure veterans receive immediate and long-term support tailored to their unique needs.

Key Responsibilities:

Engage veterans in

the development and ongoing review of Individual Recovery Plans (IRPs), ensuring goals reflect their personal recovery journey and housing stability needs. Provide outreach

, advocacy, and peer counseling to

veterans in transitional housing, permanent supportive housing, or those newly entering the program. Use personal recovery experience to model

hope, resilience, and self-determination

, emphasizing the value of lived experience in overcoming challenges. Support veterans in developing coping

strategies, independent living skills, and community reintegration plans

. Assist with

housing navigation

, including coordination with VA housing programs, landlords, and supportive services. Escort veterans to appointments, including medical, psychiatric, and housing-related meetings, while offering emotional support and guidance. Maintain accurate documentation including case

notes, progress reports, and service plans in

compliance with program standards. Support veterans in budgeting

and financial management

, including benefits applications (e.g., VA benefits, SSI/SSDI, SNAP). Coordinate referrals to

community-based services

, including employment support, substance use treatment, and veteran-specific resources. Advocate for veterans' access to

entitlements and services

, ensuring they are informed and empowered to navigate systems effectively. Participate in team meetings, trainings, and supervision to enhance service delivery and professional development.


Qualifications:Must be a self

-identified individual with lived experience of

mental health or co-occurring behavioral health challenges.

Veteran status or experience working with veterans

strongly preferred. Lived experience of homelessness, recovery

, or reintegration is

highly valued. High School Diploma or GED required; college

coursework or degree in

human services or related field is a plus. Completion of Peer

Specialist Certification or

training in using personal recovery stories in a professional setting is required. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build

rapport with diverse populations

, especially veterans. Comfortable using personal experiences professionally while maintaining appropriate boundaries. * Experience working in housing, behavioral health, or veteran services is