Job Description
Peer Advocate (Peer Mentor) - Youth Rising Drop-In Center (Hobbs, NM) Part-Time | $22-$24/hr DOE | Potential for Full-Time Growth Do you love connecting with young people? Do you have a story, skill, or hobby you're passionate about sharing — whether it's art, gaming, sports, music, or just being a positive voice in someone's day? Youth Rising is looking for an energetic, reliable, and compassionate Peer Advocate to join our Hobbs Drop-In team. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys engaging middle school, high school, and young adult youth (ages 11-25), and who has personal or professional experience overcoming challenges such as mental health struggles, foster care, homelessness, or involvement with youth systems. You'll play a key role in building a safe, welcoming environment where youth feel seen, supported, and inspired.
Schedule:
Typical hours: 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM, Monday through Friday Occasional Saturday events or outreach activities in the future Part-time with growth potential toward full-time and Peer Support Certification Key Responsibilities Engage & Mentor:
Build positive, supportive relationships with youth in a casual drop-in setting. Encourage life skills, leadership, and healthy coping strategies. Create & Lead Activities:
Plan or assist with daily activities, workshops, and group discussions that promote wellness, belonging, and creativity. Support Daily Operations:
Help maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment at the drop-in center. Outreach & Connection:
Encourage youth participation, help spread awareness of Youth Rising programs, and build trust in the community. Team Collaboration:
Work closely with the Regional Program Director and other staff to coordinate programming and ensure smooth operations. Professional Growth:
Participate in ongoing training and development opportunities, including working toward Certified Peer Support Specialist or Prevention Specialist credentials. Qualifications Education:
(Preferred) Associate's or Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, psychology, or a related field preferred — but equivalent work experience and passion are highly valued. Experience:
2-3 years working or volunteering with youth in schools, community programs, or similar environments. Lived Experience:
Individuals with personal experience in foster care, mental health recovery, juvenile justice, or homelessness are strongly encouraged to apply. Skills:
Friendly, outgoing, and comfortable leading or joining in group activities Excellent communication and listening skills Dependable and professional, with a positive attitude Basic computer and recordkeeping skills (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, etc.) Preferred Certifications:
Peer Support or Prevention Specialist, CPR/First Aid (or willingness to complete within 90 days) Bilingual (Spanish/English) highly desirable Why Join Youth Rising? Youth Rising is a national nonprofit helping young people overcome barriers and build strong futures. Our drop-in centers provide a safe, supportive space for youth to connect, grow, and discover new possibilities. This role offers hands-on experience, mentorship, and real growth opportunities for someone passionate about youth empowerment. HOW TO APPLY
Please apply through Indeed. No phone calls or emails. Please submit a resume and cover letter through Indeed, and we will review and respond if we plan to schedule an interview. Thank you! Pay:
$22.00 - $24.00 per hour Expected hours: 15 - 25 per week Education:
Bachelor's (Preferred) Experience:
Working with youth: 2 years (Required) Work Location:
In person
