Breastfeeding Peer Counselor
: Job Details :

MISSION STATEMENT

Are you ready to give back to the community while pursuing your passion? For over 50 years, Acacia Network and its affiliates have been committed to improving the quality-of-life and wellbeing of underserved communities in New York City and beyond. We are one of the leading human services organizations in New York City and the largest Hispanic-led nonprofit in the State, serving over 150,000 individuals every year. Our programs serve individuals at every age and developmental level, from the very young through our daycare programs to mature adults through our older adults centers. Our extensive array of community-based services are fully integrated, bilingual and culturally competent.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Reporting to the WIC Coordinator, the WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor provides basic breastfeeding information, encouragement, and support to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding participants as outlined in the policies and procedures of the WIC program.

KEY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Complete the required FNS WIC Breastfeeding Curriculum training to become a PC and attend on-going training to keep breastfeeding knowledge and skills current
• Provide basic, evidence-based techniques that help ensure a successful start in breastfeeding, including milk production, skin-to-skin care, positioning and latch, milk expression and storage
• Educate participants on how to assemble, use and clean a breast pump, create a pumping schedule, and breast milk storage guidelines, as needed
• Yield to the Designated Breastfeeding Expert (DBE) or Qualified Nutritionist when participants are experiencing difficulties and for situations outside of PC scope of practice
• Receive a caseload of WIC participants and make routine periodic contacts with all participants assigned
• Counsel WIC pregnant and breastfeeding participants via email, face-to face, and phone
• Keep accurate NYS WIC Peer Counselor Productivity records and submit to supervisor in a timely manner
• Respect each participant by keeping personal information strictly confidential
• Refer participants to other WIC staff or community programs, according to local agency-established protocols
• Attend and assist with prenatal classes and breastfeeding support groups
• Attend monthly staff meetings and breastfeeding conferences/workshops, as appropriate
• Read assigned books and materials on breastfeeding provided by supervisor

REQUIREMENTS

• High School Diploma or GED
• Must have breastfed at least one baby
• Intermediate use of standard Microsoft Office & Internet required.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English); strongly preferred.

WHY JOIN US?

Acacia Network providesa comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. In addition to a competitive salary, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage. We also offer generous paid time off, including vacation days and paid holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance. We prioritize the well-being of our employees both professionally and personally.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.