Youth Peer Advocate

Organization: Mental Health Association of Rochester/Monroe County

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Youth Peer Advocates are individuals between 18 and 30 years of age who have self identified as having first hand experience with social, emotional, medical, developmental, substance use, and/or behavioral challenges.

They use their lived experience to support young people in their resiliency, recovery and wellness journeys. Youth Peer Advocates use their skills and strategies to empower and support other young people and serve as a peer mentor, positive role model and advocate to youth and young adults currently receiving care coordination services in Monroe County. The Youth Peer Advocate will assist youth in achieving their goals and living healthy, self-directed lives.

The role involves connecting with youth while working with a team in order to identify, advocate, and act as a liaison between youth and other professionals and community natural supports.

Youth Peer Advocates must be between the ages of 18-30 years old to qualify for this position.

We have full-time (35 hrs/wk) and part-time (20 hrs/wk) positions available

Additional duties may be assigned

• Engages individuals/families in a personal, supportive manner, creating relationships that emphasize wellness and recovery.
• Provides individuals/families with services consistent with the program goals and outcomes. This may include individual and group support services. This may include providing services at the program site and in the community.
• Empowers participants to be self-advocates in their own lives.
• Collaborates with community resources and makes referrals as necessary.
• Maintains appropriate documentation in a timely manner consistent with department requirements and HIPAA regulations.

• High school diploma/GED equivalency.
• Experience and knowledge of the public mental health system.
• Credentialed Youth Peer Advocate preferred or must be in the process of obtaining Youth Peer Advocate credentials from Families Together in NYS. Credentials must be maintained throughout employment.
• Computer Software:
  Microsoft Office to include Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel. Experience with Paylocity payroll system preferred. EMR software experience preferred.
• Reliable transportation and ability to provide services in the community is required.

• Excellent communication skills including verbal and written communication.
• Ability to analyze and solve complex problems.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Ability to work with sensitivity and respect with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and social identities.