Community Outreach Workers

SKOUN is a Lebanese, non-profit, non-governmental organization and one of the first outpatient facilities that provide accessible treatment, education and protection for all people who use drugs while maintaining its values regarding inclusion, accessibility, integrity and dignity.

For 20 years, SKOUN has been caring for the most vulnerable populations in Lebanon and strives to ensure drug use and addiction are treated as primary health issues.

SKOUN aims to support the development of community-based substance use and mental health system in line with the National Mental Health Strategy and model of care, tackling gender barriers in service access and gender biases in service provision through offering quality and gender-sensitive services to women, men, boys, girls and gender non-conforming individuals living in Lebanon, particularly the most vulnerable groups and people at risk.

Under the "Enhancing Protection and Trauma-Informed Support for Internally Displaced Persons" project, supported by the Lebanon Humanitarian Fund (LHF), Skoun aims to provide protection and specialized health services to internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by conflict and crisis. With a particular focus on substance use and mental health challenges in humanitarian settings, the project seeks to develop and implement tailored psychosocial support interventions, raise awareness, and improve access to essential services.

By equipping protection actors with specialized training and tools, this initiative ensures that IDPs in shelters across Beirut and Mount Lebanon receive the support they need to develop positive coping mechanisms, access treatment, and navigate the complex challenges of displacement and trauma

Job Summary:

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated outreach worker to conduct outreach interventions with internally displaced people during this emergency situation. The ideal candidate will provide immediate emotional support and promote mental well-being among individuals affected by crisis.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct interventions to provide internal displaced people about services they might need.
• Assess the needs of individuals and groups accordingly.
• Collaborate with local organizations and other volunteers to ensure a coordinated response.
• Maintain confidentiality and ethical standards in all interactions.
• Provide feedback and reports on Interventions outcomes and participant engagement.
• Participate in training and capacity-building workshops as required.
• Identify and refer cases as necessary.

Qualifications:

• Background in psychology, social work, counseling, or related field (preferred but not mandatory).
• Experience in providing mental health support or working with vulnerable populations.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in high-stress environments and handle sensitive situations with empathy.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing circumstances.
• Willingness to commit time and energy to support affected individuals.
• Familiarity with Microsoft office (word & excel,…) and the KOBO system is preferred.
• Ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies and software.

Skills Specification:

• Empathy and Compassion: Ability to connect with individuals in distress, demonstrating understanding and sensitivity to their experiences.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills to effectively engage with participants and convey information clearly.
• Crisis Management: Ability to remain calm and composed in high-pressure situations, assessing needs quickly and effectively.
• Facilitation Skills: Experience in leading group discussions and activities that encourage participation and sharing.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding of and respect for diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives, ensuring inclusivity in sessions.
• Active Listening: Proficiency in listening attentively to participants, validating their feelings, and responding appropriately.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify challenges faced by participants and provide practical solutions or referrals to additional support.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Ability to work effectively as part of a team, collaborating with other volunteers and organizations.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust approaches based on the evolving needs of participants and the emergency context.
• Basic Knowledge of Mental Health: Understanding of basic mental health principles, particularly in relation to trauma and stress.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of displaced individuals.
• Gain experience in emergency response and psychosocial support.
• Access to training and professional development resources.
• Build connections with a network of dedicated volunteers and professionals.