Peer Advocate; Youth Peer

The Child Center of NY strengthens children and families with skills, opportunities, and emotional support to build healthy, successful lives. Founded in 1953, The Child Center of NY has become a powerful community presence throughout the city. With 50 locations and 100 programs in NYC’s most under-served communities, our 1,000+ results-oriented professionals make a difference for more than 40,000 children and their families each year.

Sign-On Bonus: $3,000 Sign-On Bonus Eligible

Family Peer Advocates assist families to set priorities and goals, provide information, and help families navigate multiple complex service systems. Family Peer Advocates support families to strengthen their connections to community resources and connect with natural supports.

• Credentialed (FPA
  - C)
• Reliable Transportation:
  Ability to travel to different locations to meet with families.

The Peer Specialist plays a vital role in supporting individuals engaged in CCBHC services, using lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges to foster engagement, hope, and empowerment. The Peer Specialist provides peer‑led interventions, assists with service navigation, and promotes recovery‑oriented practices while collaborating with clinical teams and community partners to ensure person‑centered care.

• New York State Peer Specialist Certification (NYCPS or NYCPS‑P).

The primary role of a Youth Advocate is to identify and address the needs and concerns of young people, and to empower them to become active and engaged members of their communities.

• Youth Peer Advocate Certification (YPA).

• High School Diploma or Equivalency
• 2 years’ experience

• Bilingual Skills (Preferred):
  Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Bengali and others, may be required depending on client needs.
• Experience working in a behavioral health or social services setting.
• Knowledge of trauma‑informed care, harm reduction, and person‑centered recovery models.

The Child Center of NY is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status or any other category protected by Federal, State or local law. EOE M/F/D/V