Family Support Peer (SUD)

Independent Living•Newburgh, NY

5d•Onsite

About The Position

This position provides supports and services throughout Orange and Sullivan Counties. Independent Living, Inc. (ILI) has been increasing access, encouraging self-determination, and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities throughout the Hudson Valley of New York since 1987. Following the traditional independent living center (ILC) model, the majority of ILI’s board and staff are individuals with disabilities, bringing valuable peer and life-experience perspectives to the services we provide. ILI is committed to empowering individuals to live independently and participate fully in their communities. The Family Support Peer provides compassionate, recovery-oriented peer support to individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders. This position delivers Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) services, helps families navigate treatment and recovery systems, and connects individuals with community resources that promote long-term wellness. The Family Support Peer serves as an advocate, educator, and mentor while fostering self-directed recovery, strengthening family engagement, and supporting access to recovery-oriented services.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required
Minimum of two (2) years of peer coaching, recovery coaching, family support, advocacy, or related experience.
Lived experience with substance use recovery, either personally or as a family member or loved one, with the ability to appropriately use self-disclosure to support participants.
Strong understanding of the recovery process and commitment to promoting multiple pathways to recovery.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, presentation, and active listening skills.
Strong organizational, time management, documentation, and computer skills.
Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Valid unrestricted driver's license with reliable transportation.
Candidates who do not hold an approved advocacy certification will be required to obtain one within the first six (6) months of employment.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in human services or a related field preferred.
Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA), New York Certified Peer Specialist (NYCPS), or another approved peer advocacy certification.
Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field.
Experience delivering Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) or other evidence-based family support models.
Experience facilitating support groups or delivering community education.
Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency.
Knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL).

Responsibilities

Deliver Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) services to individuals and families affected by substance use.
Educate families on the progression of addiction, recovery principles, and strategies to support their loved ones.
Assist individuals in developing person-centered recovery service plans aligned with their goals and strengths.
Utilize recovery-oriented tools to support wellness planning, self-advocacy, and informed decision-making.
Connect individuals to community resources, including healthcare, housing, employment, education, transportation, legal assistance, benefits, and other support services.
Help families and participants navigate insurance barriers and access substance use treatment services.
Advocate for individuals and families while promoting multiple pathways to recovery, including Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT).
Provide crisis support and encourage engagement in recovery services.
Facilitate family support groups and recovery-focused educational sessions.
Conduct community outreach through tabling events, presentations, and awareness activities.
Complete required training to become a Narcan trainer and provide overdose prevention education to community members.
Accurately maintain documentation, data entry, and program records in accordance with organizational and funding requirements.
Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and required training.
Provide program coverage during extended staff absences and perform other duties as assigned.
Use personal experiences to foster resiliency, recovery, and wellness, offering guidance, mentoring, and non-crisis support in individual or group settings, for family caregivers.
Support clients in developing self-advocacy skills, navigating service systems, and connecting with community resources.