Family Peer Advocate - Cortland

Children's Home of Wyoming Conference•Cortland, NY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This role is based on personal experience, not educational or professional qualifications. Applicants must be the PARENT or Guardian of a child involved with service providers (e.g., DSS, CPS, mental health, OPWDD, substance abuse) or facing challenges like behavioral issues, IEPs, or placement. The Family Peer Advocate provides support to families raising a child who is experiencing social, emotional, medical, developmental, substance use, or behavioral challenges in their home, school, placement, or community. The Family Peer Advocate engages in a structured strength-based relationship with the parent or caregiver for the benefit of the child. Services are delivered in a trauma informed, culturally and linguistically competent manner. The Family Peer Advocate is an integral part of the CFTSS team.

Requirements

Minimum High School Diploma or GED required
NYS Family Peer Advocate credential is required within 30 days of employment.
Must be a Parent or primary caregiver who has navigated multiple child serving systems on behalf of their child(ren) with social emotional, developmental, health and/or behavioral health care needs
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 the 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.
Work to reduce feelings of stigma and isolation within families, and promptly communicate any 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 utilizing public transportation.