Peer Recovery Specialist - Southern Onward

Independent Living•Chappaqua, NY

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Independent Living, Inc. (ILI) is seeking a Peer Recovery Specialist for its Southern Onward program. This full-time, non-exempt position is based in Chappaqua and reports to the Manager - Onward Westchester. The Peer Recovery Specialist will use their lived experience with substance use recovery to provide encouragement, advocacy, and peer-based support to individuals and families navigating recovery journeys. The role focuses on building trusting relationships, promoting self-directed recovery, and helping individuals access the tools, resources, and supports needed to achieve their personal goals. The Peer Recovery Specialist serves as a role model for recovery, resilience, and wellness while helping participants strengthen coping skills and community connections. 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. The organization is committed to empowering individuals to live independently and participate fully in their communities. ILI champions inclusive hiring practices and actively welcomes individuals of all abilities.

Requirements

Personal or family experience with substance use recovery and comfort using lived experience in supportive and professional ways
Willingness to undergo jail, hospital, etc., onboarding
Strong belief that recovery is individualized and that multiple pathways to recovery exist
Excellent communication, listening, and interpersonal skills
Compassionate, dependable, and self-motivated approach to supporting others
Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with a team
Flexibility to meet the scheduling needs of participants and program operations
Willingness to participate in ongoing training and skill development
High school diploma or equivalent
Valid unrestricted driver’s license

Nice To Haves

Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) certification or willingness to obtain
NYCPS (New York Certified Peer Specialist) certification
Two years of peer coaching, advocacy, recovery support, or related experience
Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field
Bilingual English/Spanish skills strongly preferred
American Sign Language (ASL) skills

Responsibilities

Connect with individuals and families who are navigating substance use recovery
Share personal lived experience appropriately to build trust, inspire hope, and support recovery journeys
Assist individuals in creating personalized recovery and wellness plans based on their goals and strengths
Provide peer support in person, over the phone, through text communication, and in group settings
Teach wellness tools, coping skills, and recovery strategies that promote long-term success
Advocate alongside individuals to help them access community resources and services, such as: Housing, Health care, Transportation, Education, Employment, Legal or civic support
Support participants in obtaining services related to housing, healthcare, transportation, education, employment, and legal or civic needs
Facilitate or co-facilitate self-help groups, educational workshops, and peer support meetings
Provide calm, compassionate support during times of crisis and connect individuals to appropriate resources
Collaborate with partner agencies and community providers to strengthen support networks
Encourage self-advocacy, independence, and confidence in navigating systems of care
Maintain accurate documentation, data tracking, and reports in compliance with program requirements
Participate in trainings, supervision, team meetings, and professional development opportunities