• Youth Peer Advocate

    Spectrum Health and Human Services (Buffalo, NY)


    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