Peer Counselor WIC

Job Description

Job Description

Up to10 hrs per week/flexible schedule

General Statement of Duties :

The WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor is a paraprofessional support person who gives basic breastfeeding information and encouragement to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. The counselor will provide information consistent with the WIC Program's philosophy regardless of personal beliefs. Ability to communicate in English and Portuguese languages.

1. Attends breastfeeding training classes to become a peer counselor. Reads assigned books/materials provided by supervisor.
2. Receives a caseload of WIC mothers and makes routine periodic contacts with all mothers assigned.
3. Will be available outside the usual 8-5 working schedule for mothers encountering breastfeeding problems.
4. Attempts to contact prenatal women at least one month prior to delivery.
5. Provides basic breastfeeding information and support to breastfeeding mothers: to include information on benefits, overcoming common barriers, and getting off to a good start. She helps prevent and manage common breastfeeding concerns.
6. Will contact all postpartum women electing to breastfeed soon after delivery. Contacts can be made from the WIC office or by phone, to assist in initiating breastfeeding, to provide information and support, to encourage the continuance of successful breastfeeding and to respond to any breastfeeding concerns or problems.
7. Counsel breastfeeding mothers that are returning to work. Provide information on pumping and storage of milk and the use of supplemental formula if/when necessary.
8. Will arrange follow up contacts at her own discretion as long as it is agreeable with the WIC participant.
9. Will keep accurate records of all contacts in EOS and submit paperwork in a timely manner to the WIC office.
10. Will attend monthly staff meetings and breastfeeding conferences/workshops as appropriate.
11. Will refer breastfeeding problems to the WIC breastfeeding Coordinator if immediate attention is required or they are beyond her level of knowledge and skills.
12. May facilitate weekly prenatal breastfeeding information groups and / or breastfeeding support groups.

1. May assist WIC staff in promoting breastfeeding through special projects and duties as assigned

Qualifications:

* Past or current experience breastfeeding at least one baby and past or current WIC participation.

* Ability to speak Portuguese required

* The ability and willingness to make calls from home

* The ability to attend one monthly meeting at the office site

* The ability to listen, avoid judgment and be sensitive to cultural diversity

* A courteous and professional manner and the ability to maintain confidentiality

• Ability to lift, transfer, push/pull, maneuver, and reposition 10 pounds.

* Ability to communicate in English and Portuguese languages required.