Peer Support Advocate

Youth Peer MentorAbout the RoleThis role delivers youth-focused, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed recovery services to ACS-involved youth and families. The Youth Peer Mentor builds rapport, assesses readiness for change, and supports individuals in accessing recovery and community-based resources.Key ResponsibilitiesDirect Care & Recovery Support (70%)Provide orientation to youth on program services and support access to substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and recovery resourcesBuild motivation and engagement around recovery, prevention, and youth developmentAssess stage of change and collaborate with youth to identify goals and recovery pathwaysDeliver tailored interventions to address barriers and promote readiness for changeSupport youth in developing and achieving personal recovery goalsEscort youth to appointments, support groups, and community-based services as neededConnect youth and families to educational, employment, and community resourcesPromote self-advocacy and ensure youth voices are central to care planningFacilitate sessions with youth and families to strengthen recovery support systemsParticipate in outreach efforts to increase awareness of available servicesAdministrative Support (20%)Maintain accurate records of peer activities and service interactionsDocument all client engagements in electronic systems in a timely mannerGeneral Responsibilities (10%)Provide advocacy support for ACS and juvenile justice-involved youthFacilitate family-focused meetingsBuild relationships with community partners and service providersAttend staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessionsQualificationsHigh School Diploma or GED requiredAges 18–30 with lived experience related to social, emotional, behavioral, medical, or substance use challengesNYS Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) or CRPA-P requiredAbility to leverage lived experience to support youth in recovery and wellnessFamiliarity with HCBS Behavioral Health peer service model preferredExperience working with culturally diverse populations in an addiction services settingProficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic documentation systemsPreferred SkillsStrong ability to engage and build rapport with youthExcellent communication and interpersonal skillsSchedulePart-time, flexible hours