INTERN

Purpose of the Position

The purpose of the Peer / Youth Advisor is to provide a support and can talk about their experiences in the foster care system in a safe and non-judgmental space that promotes hope and resilience. They share their own knowledge of healthy coping skills, symptom management techniques, and how to navigate young adult demands and independent living.

Reports To

Director of Young Adult Services

Specific Responsibilities

• Participate in Passagesb to Adulthood meetings
• Offer and Provide peer support when needed
• Document all peer support activity in progress notes
• Aid in crisis prevention & intervention when needed
• Interpret and implement the Agency’s philosophy, policies, routines, and procedures
• Aid new clients in the transition to P2A and MIP when needed
• Accept responsibilities as assigned by the immediate Supervisor and/or Director
• Attend in-service training sessions, conferences, and/or workshops as required by the position and/or authorized by the Supervisor and/or Director of Child Care.
• Attend monthly All Staff meeting and other meetings as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED
• Complete Youth Advocacy training
• Have experience as a consumer of residential or other mental health services
• Adequate clearance checks for State Central Register, and fingerprinting as required by the program
• Be in good standing, and demonstrate the ability to reflect thoughtfully about their diagnosis, experiences, and personal history
• Have a basic knowledge of support techniques, advocacy, active listening methods, and group facilitation, or be willing to attend related trainings
• Be positive leaders and role models, and help youth negotiate issues with other peers or staff in a professional manner
• As a peer advisor it is important that social media accounts do not promote or glorify any violence, self-harm, underage drinking/ illegal drug use, personal attacks, bashing or negative self-promotion

Relationship with Others

• Be team players
• Have a strong sensitivity to cultural differences present among staff and clients within our organization
• Possess a strong belief in people’s ability to grow and change; forge a mutually respectful partnership with persons served and their families
• Set limits and maintain helping role of practitioner and to intervene appropriately

Working Conditions

No special working conditions

Scope of Responsibility

N/A

Organizational Structure

N/A