Family Peer Advocate - Cortland

Serving with Compassion, Creativity, and Consistency. $17-20 an hour
Full Time $17-19
Part Time $18-20 Position Summary: 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.

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.

Requirements

Education

• Minimum High School Diploma or GED required.
• NYS Family Peer Advocate credential is required within 30 days of employment.

Experience

• 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

Benefits

Benefits available to all staff:

• Student Loan and Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Discounts at the Southern Tier Community Center
• Opportunities for Professional Development

Full Time Benefits:

• Agency-Paid CEUs, License Prep Course, and License Exam
• 403(b) with 6% employer contribution
• PTO plus 9 paid holidays
• Childcare Reimbursement
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance (with HSA/FSA Accounts)
• Life Insurance

EEO Statement: The Children's Home is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.