Family Peer Advocate
Job purpose
Are you a caregiver/parent of a child or youth that has struggled with mental health, social emotional, or behavioral challenges? Has your child struggled in school? Did you know where to get the help when you needed it? Have you had to take your child to the hospital because of their behaviors? You can be a Family Peer Advocate with Mental Health Advocates of WNY. We are looking for passionate individuals who want to help others to join our peer lead organization. The Child and Family Support Program (CFSP) of Mental Health Advocates of WNY provides education, support and advocacy to families who have a child or young adult living with a mental illness. We are looking for full and part time Family Peer Advocates. A Family Peer Advocate must be a parent, grandparents, caregiver of a child that has utilized services for their child’s mental health.Duties and responsibilities
- Support caregivers by disseminating information and referrals or by providing linkage to appropriate agencies or providers as needed.
- Help families navigate the education, behavioral health, addiction, juvenile justice, and child welfare system.
- Provide necessary skills and information to families so they can advocate effectively for their child.
- Work with caregivers to develop goals and a plan of care to support the mental wellbeing of the child and family.
- Meet with families in their homes and/or in the community to provide support.
- Documents all activities in CFSP database, including, plan of care, progress notes, and family needs assessments.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
The following is a list of experience, technologies, credentials, skills, and other items which are required for this position:
- Must be a parent/caregiver of a child, adolescent or young adult who has mental health and/or behavioral health challenges.
- Broad knowledge and experience in the mental health system or the willingness to learn.
- Good networking experience.
- Ability to demonstrate sensitivity and a supportive approach to the needs of others.
- Ability to practice of a high level of confidentiality.
- Above average oral and written communication skills.
- Excellent relationship building, interpersonal and coaching skills.
- Sound, independent decision-making ability.
- Team-first attitude and a positive demeanor.
- Proficient computer skills in a Microsoft 365 (Word, Access, PowerPoint, One Drive, etc.) a plus.
- Flexibility with schedule to include evening hours and weekends.
- Valid NYS drivers license and reliable transportation.
- Mental Health Advocates of WNY is an equal opportunity employer. People of diverse backgrounds, race, ethnicity, and gender, and those who speak a second language are encouraged to apply.
Travel Requirements
Valid NYS driver’s license and reliable transportation.
How to Apply
Please send your resume and cover letter outlining your experience as a parent or caregiver of a youth living with mental health and/or behavioral challenges to:
Stacie Dziwulski
Director, Child and Family Support Program
Mental Health Advocates of WNY
sdziwulski@mhawny.org
To apply on Indeed:
Do You Need Help?
Information & referral specialists are available M-F, 8:30am-4:30pm to help link you to community resources, providers, or treatment services.
Call (716) 886-1242.