Kinship Caregiver/Family Peer Advocate, Child & Family Support Program (CFSP) part-time position available/possible full-time

Reports to:

Job purpose

In keeping the Mental Health Association of WNY, Inc. (MHA) Vision and Value statements the Child and Family Support Program (CFSP) Family Peer Advocate maintains a Mission-driven approach and provides education, support, and advocacy to families who have a child or young adult in their care experiencing mental health and/or behavioral health challenges.

Duties and responsibilities

 Models youth and family-driven approach to services; assuring needs of Caregiver and youth are met while using family strengths and services that are culturally competent.
 Supports kinship caregivers met at the Erie County Medical Center by disseminating information and referrals or by providing linkage to appropriate agencies or providers as needed.
 Attends family meetings as needed which may include educational meetings, psychiatric appointments, or agency meetings to support families by facilitating positive communication and strength–based focus.
 Meet with families in their homes to provide support.
 Documents all activities and writes progress notes.
 Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

 Kinship Caregiver of a child, adolescent or young adult who has mental health and/or behavioral health challenges and/or has been a recipient of services in one of the child-serving systems.
 Broad knowledge and experience in the Mental Health System and/or other child-serving systems.
 Good networking experience.
 Ability to demonstrate sensitivity and a supportive approach to the needs of others.
 Evidence of the 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.
 Proficient computer skills in a Microsoft Office environment (Word, Access, PowerPoint, etc.) or other current technology.
 Team-first attitude and a positive demeanor.
 Flexibility with schedule to include evening hours and weekends.
 Bachelors of Science Degree in Health Education or Human Services Related Field. A combination of education and comparable experience will also be considered.

Travel Requirements

Mandatory: must possess a valid Driver’s License with reliable transportation to travel within New York State, as well as nationally, if required.

How to Apply

Please send a resume, including a cover letter with your experience of caring for a child, teen, or young adult living with a mental health diagnosis to: jobs@mhawny.org
MHA, ATTN: Career Opportunities; 1021 Broadway, Buffalo, NY 14212