Family Peer Advocate - Broome

Children•Binghamton, NY

About The Position

The Family Peer Advocate provides support to families raising a child experiencing social, emotional, medical, developmental, substance use, or behavioral challenges at home, school, in placement, or in the community. The role is based on personal experience rather than educational or professional qualifications. The advocate builds a structured, strength-based relationship with a parent or caregiver for the benefit of the child and delivers services in a trauma-informed, culturally and linguistically competent manner. The position is an integral part of the CFTSS team. Applicants must be the parent or guardian of a child involved with service providers such as DSS, CPS, mental health, OPWDD, or substance-abuse services, or facing challenges such as behavioral issues, IEPs, or placement. Compensation is $23–$25 per hour.

Requirements

Must be the parent or primary caregiver who has navigated multiple child-serving systems on behalf of their child or children with social-emotional, developmental, health, and/or behavioral health care needs.
High school diploma or GED required.
NYS Family Peer Advocate credential required within 30 days of employment.
Valid driver's license and ability to maintain insurance throughout employment required.

Responsibilities

Foster the growth of the parent-child relationship in alignment with the plan and the agency's family-centered practice philosophy.
Develop and maintain positive relationships with families.
Collaborate with and advocate for families alongside community agencies.
Support parents and caregivers in ensuring the safety and well-being of at-risk children through strength-based interventions and collaboration.
Help reduce feelings of stigma and isolation within families and promptly communicate concerns to the supervisor.
Provide safe and reliable transportation for youth, families, and Children's Home affiliates as required by the program.
Educate parents and caregivers on navigating and using public transportation.

Benefits

Student loan and tuition reimbursement
Employee Assistance Program
Employee discounts at the Southern Tier Community Center
Opportunities for professional development
Agency-paid CEUs, license preparation course, and license exam for full-time staff
403(b) with 6% employer contribution for full-time staff
PTO plus 9 paid holidays for full-time staff
Childcare reimbursement for full-time staff
Health, dental, and vision insurance, with HSA/FSA accounts, for full-time staff
Life insurance for full-time staff