Peer Advocate in New York, New York at Vocational Instruction Project Community Services Inc.

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Social Worker assist the social workers and case managers in delivering services to client enrolled in PODER. Will perform outreach activities in the form of home visits and escorts. Advocate on clients’ behalf and assist them in gaining access to a number of health, mental health and social services. This will often involve schedule escorts to various appointments out in the community. The Peer Advocate reports directly to the social worker

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

• Peer Advocates will provide a positive role model of self empowerment to clients, by sharing their knowledge on how to access various needed services in the community and encouraging and supporting improvements in self care in the areas of mental health, health and healthier choices around substance use and high risk behaviors.
• As directed by the social worker & case manager, provide scheduled community escorts for program clients.
• As scheduled by the social worker or case manager, make outreach home visits to program clients.
• Report observed changes in client functioning to social worker immediately. These areas will include drug use, mental health, health, activities of daily living, social situations.
• Participate in individual supervision.
• Participate in Team Meetings.
• Be responsible with being on time and demonstrate reliable attendance.
• Must be sensitive to the needs of our clients and respectful at all times.
• Not be judgmental and utilize a harm reduction approach to engaging clients with multiple challenges.
• Able to interact and advocate with other community service providers in a respectful and professional manner.
• Have a basic understanding of HIV mode of transmission, disease progression, treatment options and side effects.

• High School/General Equivalency Diploma
• Knowledge of HIV/AIDS and related issues.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to interact effectively with all populations served.
• Ability to speak read and write the English language.