Peer Bridger at Independent Living Inc – Middletown, New York

Title: Peer Bridger

Position Type: Full-time, Non-exempt

Reports to: Community Outreach and Support Manager

Base Location: Middletown

About Independent Living, Inc.

Since 1987, Independent Living Inc. (ILI) has been increasing access, encouraging self-determination, and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities in the Hudson Valley, of New York. Following the traditional independent living (IL) model, the majority of ILI’s board and staff are individuals with disabilities and use personal, lived experience to support others in the community – turning perceived deficits into assets.

Why Work with Us?

• Join a mission-driven organization dedicated to building a barrier-free society and supporting independent living
• Be part of a collaborative, inclusive culture that values diversity, respect, and innovation
• Play a critical leadership role in shaping and modernizing the organization’s technology infrastructure
• Opportunity to make a direct impact on staff effectiveness and service delivery through technology

About the Role

The Peer Bridger plays a vital role in supporting individuals as they transition from hospitals, treatment programs, or other structured settings back into the community. Using lived experience, the Peer Bridger builds trusting relationships, promotes self-determination, and helps individuals navigate systems, access resources, and establish stability and independence.

This position is grounded in the Independent Living philosophy, emphasizing dignity, choice, peer support, and full community inclusion for individuals of all ages and abilities.

What You’ll Do

• Build trusting, supportive relationships with individuals transitioning back into the community
• Share lived experience, when appropriate, to provide encouragement, hope, and practical guidance
• Support individuals in identifying personal goals and developing transition plans
• Assist with discharge planning and maintain communication with hospital teams and providers
• Help individuals understand their rights and navigate complex systems
• Connect individuals to resources such as housing, benefits, employment, education, and community supports
• Encourage independence, confidence, and development of independent living skills
• Provide one-on-one peer support and advocacy
• Lead or co-lead support groups focused on recovery, wellness, and life skills
• Identify systemic barriers and advocate for improvements alongside participants
• Educate individuals, families, and partners on disability rights and recovery options
• Participate in community forums and outreach efforts
• Complete required documentation and reports accurately and in a timely manner
• Attend trainings, meetings, and professional development opportunities
• Provide Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) as needed

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

• Lived experience with mental health challenges, substance use recovery, incarceration, disability, or navigating complex systems
• Willingness to share personal experiences appropriately to support others
• Strong belief in recovery, self-direction, and multiple pathways to wellness
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and stay organized
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• Openness to learning, training, and professional growth
• Basic computer skills for documentation, communication, and service coordination
• Willingness to complete hospital onboarding requirements
• Valid, unrestricted driver’s license
• High school diploma or equivalent

It Would Be a Plus If You Also Have

• CRPA (Certified Recovery Peer Advocate), or willingness to obtain within 6 months
• NYCPS (New York Certified Peer Specialist), or willingness to obtain within 1 year

Success in This Role Will Be Demonstrated Through

• Successful transitions of individuals from institutional settings to community living
• Strong, trust-based relationships with individuals served
• Increased independence and self-advocacy among participants
• Timely and accurate documentation and service delivery
• Effective collaboration with hospitals, providers, and community partners
• Increased access to services, housing, and resources for individuals served
• Active participation in improving systems and reducing barriers

What We Will Provide to You

• A mission-driven and inclusive work environment
• Opportunities to lead and influence organizational technology strategy
• Collaboration with leadership and cross-functional teams
• Professional growth through hands-on technical leadership and innovation
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact through technology

Benefits available to you include

• Paid holidays from the first day of employment
• Paid lunch break
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with company match
• Health, Dental and Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company provided Life, AD&D and Short- and Long-Term disability insurance
• Voluntary insurances including Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity

We actively support an inclusive hiring process and encourage people with disabilities, visible and non-visible, to apply. If you require reasonable accommodation to support the application process, please contact Latoya Merricks at (845) 674-7752.

ILI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic or status protected by applicable law.

To apply, visit us at https://www.myindependentliving.org/careers/