Peer Mobile Emergency Response Specialist

About the position

Independent Living, Inc., a progressive and dynamic cross-disability services organization and a leader in the provision of peer services in the Hudson Valley is seeking to hire a Peer Mobile Emergency Response Specialist. As a Peer Mobile Emergency Response Specialist, you'll be responsible for providing supports for individuals that are in pre-crisis or crisis while working in tandem with New Windsor EMS. You will provide education and training about harm reduction strategies, as well as assisting individuals connect to other resources and services that are needed. The goal is to reduce repeat calls and give the individuals the tools and supports to prevent future crisis and pre-crisis situations while allowing them to remain well in the community. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Work directly in partnership with ILI team and Program Manager as a team of first responders who correspond to substance use disorder and co-occurring disorders related emergency calls to support individuals in pre-crisis or crisis.
• Provide highly individualized, flexible, demand responsive, intensive peer support and timely intervention during periods when individuals with substance use disorder and co-occurring disabilities are experiencing increased vulnerability.
• Provide proactive peer engagement services and coordinate comprehensive wrap around supports by working collaboratively with clinical partner and EMS.
• Remain on scene as the situation warrants with clinical team member to provide peer support and connection.
• Provide education and training about harm reduction strategies to individuals and their support systems.
• Maintain a current and working knowledge of community resources available for individuals wishing to engage in additional treatment or services.
• Educate individuals, families, and community resources about challenges, options, and resources regarding persons with disabilities.
• Assist individuals in accessing services and treatments.
• Engage in individual advocacy by assisting individuals with substance use disorder and co-occurring disorders in protecting and promoting their rights.
• Make referrals to the Orange County Crisis Call Center for ongoing resources, services, and peer supports.
• Engage in systems advocacy by representing the concerns of individuals with substance use disorder and co-occurring disorders.
• Encourage personal empowerment, self-determination, and independent living skill development.
• Complete all reporting and record keeping as required including statistical reports by specified due dates.
• Attend and actively participate in all meetings and training sessions provided by Independent Living, Inc.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field, preferred, plus two years of peer coaching or advocacy experience.
• NYCPS (New York Certified Peer Specialist) certification or CPRA (Certified Peer Recovery Advocate) preferred or ability to be certified within one year of employment required.
• Must have personal lived experience with mental health, substance use disorder, or co-occurring services as a former or current service recipient.
• Bilingual English/Spanish strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to recognize the need for and facilitate connections between consumers and IL and other disability related services.
• Knowledge of local, statewide and national disability related issues and community dynamics.
• Working knowledge of current community resources such as transportation systems, recreation centers, and support groups strongly desired.
• Must have a working knowledge of the substance use disorder service system and recovery process.
• Strong understanding of wellness and recovery principles, WRAP principles and experience running peer led groups strongly desired.
• Suicide intervention skills/training.
• Must have familiarity with crisis interventions.
• Excellent written and verbal presentation skills.
• Must have good time management skills and be self-directing.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays from the first day of employment
• Paid lunch break