Youth Peer Advocate

About the role

Be part of a team that values connection, accountability, and real impact. Join us at Access where our Culture Playbook isn't just a poster – it's how we show up for each other and for the people we support.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with youth ages 10-21 and their families.
• Provide direct support, information sharing, and skill building.
• Coach, educate, support, and encourage youth to use their voice and make informed choices.
• Increase youth self-empowerment and advocacy skills.
• Ensure youth point of view is heard by the team and educate others on the significance of youth voice and choice.
• Aid in identifying natural and informal supports for the youth.
• Collaborate with the team to understand assessment results and customize the plan of care.
• Resolve conflicts effectively and integrate into community, school, and family settings.
• Navigate the public human services system.
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and care coordination discussions.
• Serve as a bridge between youth and professionals, supporting mutual understanding.
• Engage in community outreach and represent the youth voice with stakeholders when appropriate.
• Support ongoing quality improvement efforts through youth feedback and insight.
• Attend required trainings to maintain certification and enhance skills.

Requirements

• Between the ages of 18-29.
• Has lived experience as a person with a mental health challenge.
• Willing and able to share their experience with others.
• Passionate about working closely with youth ages 10-21 and those with acute mental health needs.
• Willing to participate in ongoing training.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Ability to become a NYS Certified Youth Peer Advocate.
• Good organization, writing, and telephone skills.
• Organized, flexible, and able to prioritize tasks.
• Demonstrated direct experience with one's own mental health challenges.
• Willingness to work as a team player with colleagues and other providers.
• Willingness to participate in ongoing training.

Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
• Experience working with individuals with mental health challenges.
• Ability to build rapport and trust with youth and their families.
• Effective problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to navigate the public human services system.

Benefits

Access is an equal opportunity employer, including disability and veterans.

Pay

$26.50 per hour for NYS Certified Youth Peer Advocates, $25.00 per hour for those without certification.

Schedule

M-F 9:30 am to 6 pm.