Family Peer Advocate, Residential

Northern Rivers Family of Services•Albany, NY

1d•$19 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

The Family Peer Advocate supports youth and parents or caregivers through the referral, orientation, and navigation process related to the Residential Treatment Facility. The role reports to the Director of RTF, is performed onsite, and requires travel of up to 25%. The advocate works with youth, families, and RTF Transition Coordinators on early engagement, treatment planning, and discharge planning with post-discharge follow-up. The role also provides family support and consultation to staff, helps caregivers navigate the residential system, and maintains records and family plans.

Requirements

Associate's degree and one to two years of related experience, or equivalent education and experience.
Must be a parent of a child with an emotional disability.
Driver's license required.
As per regulation, the Youth Peer must be between 18 and 30 years of age.

Nice To Haves

Experience advocating for services in a residential setting is desired.

Responsibilities

Schedule face-to-face contact with the parent or caregiver of referred youth to support early engagement and explain the pre-admission and admission process.
Work with youth, families, and RTF Transition Coordinators on early engagement, treatment planning, discharge planning, and post-discharge follow-up.
Participate in pre-admission meetings, admission-day events, treatment team meetings, red-flag meetings, and other meetings involving parents or caregivers of youth on the caseload.
Conduct the Family Assessment of Needs and Strengths (FANS) within 30 days of admission and every 90 days thereafter.
Complete a FANS form, Family Plan, and individual tracking sheet for each family.
Develop FANS goals and document progress on them on an ongoing basis.
Meet monthly or more frequently with parents or caregivers to review and work on goals.
Provide transportation to parents or caregivers for meetings.
Conduct home visits.
Connect parents or caregivers with county-level family support services programs.
Provide emotional support to parents or caregivers and help them navigate the residential system.
Consult with staff about working with families of children with emotional difficulties.
Maintain appropriate records for each family.
Stay current with PEP.
Participate in role-supporting trainings, including BBI, Coalition, and Wrap around trainings.