Youth Peer Advocate

Job Description

Job Description

Agency Profile: Spectrum Health & Human Services respectfully partners with adults, children, and families as they recover from behavioral, emotional, mental health and/or substance related disorders by offering individualized and meaningful opportunities of hope, empowerment and support to achieve self-defined improvements in their quality of life.

Full-time: 326 Orchard Park Road, West Seneca, NY

*You must have a Youth Peer Advocate Credential through Families Together in NYS- please attach this certification in your application*

SUMMARY OF POSITION FUNCTION:

Provide peer support to individuals with behavioral health issues who are enrolled in Spectrum Health & Human Services’ CCBHC who are between the ages of 18 and 30.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Knowledge and demonstration of agency core values in day-to-day activities
• Advocacy
• Outreach and Engagement
• Self Help Tools; Models, Compiles and maintains list of community supports for youth.
• Youth Peer Recovery Supports and Youth Peer Counseling
• Pre-Crisis and Crisis Support Services
• Engagement, Peer Bridge Services, and Services to Assist Individuals transitioning between service systems or between residential or Inpatient Settings to the Community
• Models and Teaches Self-Advocacy, Self-Efficacy, and Empowerment
• Builds and maintains community connections and encourages utilization of Natural Supports
• Assist transition youth and young adults with goals of Independent Living Skills
• Be a positive role model especially in sharing one’s own recovery from behavioral health issues
• Assist individuals in obtaining their goals as written in their Individualized Action Plans
• Ability to utilize electronic data systems (i.e. electronic records and computers)
• Assist individuals in developing WRAP plan
• Coordinate Youth focused community events
• Knowledge of School system/resources provided through the school system
• Any other duties deemed necessary by supervisor

SKILLS/COMPETENCIES:

• Proficient in the use of computer software such as MSWord, Excel, Power Point, Desktop Publishing, Outlook, etc.
• Ability to engage and connect with individuals who have a behavioral health disorder and or their families
• Ability to develop a WRAP and or Wellness Management and Recovery
• Ability to demonstrate sensitivity and supportive approach to the needs of others.
• Sound, independent decision-making ability.
• Flexibility with schedule to include evening hours and weekends.
• Possess a Team-First Attitude

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

• MUST possess a Youth Peer Advocate Credential
• *You must have a Youth Peer Advocate Credential through Families Together in NYS- please attach this certification in your application*

In Addition to the Youth Peer Credential you may also have:

• OMH Certified Peer Specialist Credential or
• OASAS Certified Peer Advocate Credential or
• Certified Addiction Recovery Coach Credential

EXPERIENCE:

• Preferred one (1) year work-related experience
• Must possess a valid Driver’s License and a reliable vehicle with an acceptable driving record
• Must be current or former recipient of behavioral health services
• Be between the ages of 18 and 30

COMPENSATION: $23.09/hr - $26.00/hr