Outreach Specialist (Criminal Justice Focus)
About the position Impact Life is seeking a passionate and community-focused Outreach Specialist to support our Rooted in Re-Entry Program. This position is designed to serve individuals impacted by the criminal justice system, including those recently released from incarceration, currently under probation or parole supervision, or otherwise involved in the justice system. The Outreach Specialist will play a critical role in helping participants navigate barriers to recovery, housing, healthcare, employment, and community reintegration. Using a peer-centered, trauma-informed approach, you will build meaningful relationships, provide support and advocacy, and connect individuals to resources that promote long-term stability and success.
Responsibilities
- Conduct outreach and engagement activities with justice-involved individuals in community settings.
- Build trusting, peer-based relationships through lived experience, empathy, and support.
- Connect participants to recovery supports, treatment services, healthcare, housing resources, employment services, and other community programs.
- Provide education on harm reduction, recovery supports, and available community resources.
- Distribute harm reduction supplies and assist participants in accessing services that support their health and wellbeing.
- Collaborate with probation and parole officers, re-entry providers, treatment programs, community organizations, and other stakeholders.
- Advocate for participants and help reduce barriers to accessing services.
- Maintain accurate documentation of participant contacts, outreach efforts, and referrals.
- Participate in community events, team meetings, trainings, and organizational initiatives.
- Support Impact Life's mission of empowering individuals and strengthening communities.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) credential or ability to obtain CPRS certification within six (6) months of hire.
- Candidates must be eligible to obtain CPRS certification through the Delaware Certification Board.
- Minimum of two years of experience in harm reduction, peer support, outreach, substance use services, behavioral health, or a related field.
- Valid driver's license and ability to meet Impact Life driving requirements.
- Ability to travel throughout the service area and work in community settings.
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to engage individuals from diverse backgrounds with dignity and respect.
- Ability to use lived experience appropriately to build trust and model hope.
- Strong problem-solving and advocacy skills.
- Excellent organizational and documentation abilities.
- Ability to work independently while maintaining strong collaboration with a team.
- Ability to remain calm and effective in challenging or unpredictable situations.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience working with justice-involved individuals, including those returning from incarceration.
- Knowledge of re-entry services, recovery supports, housing resources, and behavioral health systems.
- Experience collaborating with community partners and public systems.
- Familiarity with harm reduction principles and recovery-oriented systems of care.
Benefits
- Health Care Plan - Medical, Dental & Vision
- Retirement Plan - 401k & ROTH 401k
- Paid Time Off
- 11 Paid Holidays Yearly
- Training & Development
- Wellness Resources