Youth Peer Advocate Youth ACT

Child and Family Services of Erie County, Inc.•Town of Cheektowaga, NY

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Child & Family Services is seeking a Youth Peer Advocate to provide resources, advocacy, and support to youth within various systems. This role involves partnering with youth and collaterals, educating recipients on self-help techniques and coping strategies, and assisting in crisis management. The ideal candidate will model sensitivity, fair treatment, and acceptance of diversity, while also contributing to program quality improvement and maintaining positive working relationships.

Requirements

Must have personal experience in youth systems (e.g., mental health, child welfare, juvenile justice).
A high school diploma, equivalency, or a State Education Commencement Credential.
Must have means of transportation to travel throughout the Western New York area.
Must have a valid New York State driver’s license.
Must be flexible to meet the needs of children and families in their homes.
Must be able to work independently.
Must possess adequate computer and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

Offer resources, including education, advocacy, and support, along with role modeling for youth on how to advocate for their needs.
Create partnerships with youth and other collaterals to help meet the needs of the youth.
Educate recipients about self-help techniques and self-help group processes.
Teach effective coping strategies based on personal lived experience.
Teach symptom management skills and assist in clarifying rehabilitation.
Assist youth and families in crisis avoidance as well as managing at the time of the crisis.
Model and practice sensitivity, fair treatment, and acceptance of diversity in all interpersonal interactions.
Participate and contribute to the program Quality Improvement process.
Maintain and submit all required documents and comply with all aspects of the Vehicle Safety and Usage Policy.
Maintain positive working relationships with program staff and others within the agency.
Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills during interactions with internal and external customers.