Re-Entry Peer Support Coach in Buffalo, New York at Spectrum Health & Human Services

Agency Profile: Spectrum Health & Human Services respectfully partners with adults, children, and families as they recover from behavioral, emotional, mental health and/or substance related disorders by offering individualized and meaningful opportunities of hope, empowerment and support to achieve self-defined improvements in their quality of life.

Full-Time 2040 Seneca Street, Buffalo NY

SUMMARY OF POSITION FUNCTION:

The Re-Entry Peer Support Coach (RPSC) are full-time grant funded positions that further the goals of the County Reentry Task Forces (CRTF) by providing guidance, mentorship, and appropriate support and stabilization to CRTF participants returning to the community from state incarceration. The RPSC works directly with clients to develop release plans, connect them to essential services, foster daily living skills, manage reentry challenges, and offer ongoing peer support to promote successful reintegration and reduce recidivism.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES: 

Pre-Release Support

• Coordinate with correctional and community supervision staff and community partners (e.g. service providers) to ensure continuity of care.
• Work directly with incarcerated individuals to create personalized release plans addressing housing, employment, education, vocational, family reunification, and health needs.
• Conduct facility visits to build relationships and provide guidance on re-entry preparation.
• Provide guidance and information on the benefits and process of working with a CRTF.

Post-Release Support

• Serve as a mentor, positive role model and advocate for individuals to promote positive reintegration.
• Provide a trauma-informed, human-centered and strength-based approach.
• Assist clients in accessing community resources such as housing, vocational training and job readiness programs, mental health services, substance use programs, benefits and other resources and may include escorting participants to appointments.
• Assistant clients in obtaining identification and documents in support of successful reentry.
• Provide emotional support and practical guidance during the transition period.

Case Management & Advocacy

• Maintain accurate records of client interactions, interventions and progress.
• Advocate for clients’ needs with service providers and agencies, where appropriate.
• Monitor and evaluate client goals to ensure successful reintegration.
• Coordinate and facilitate multiple reentry services to avoid gaps in care and services.
• Strong relationships with county and local service providers as well as parole officers.

SKILLS/COMPETENCIES:

• Cultural competence, awareness, and skills.
• Trauma-informed approaches.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality as well as set and maintain professional boundaries.
• Focused on actionable goals related to reintegration, rehabilitation, or breaking the cycle of re-offending.
• Broad knowledge of human service agencies and community-based organizations.
• Ability to work independently, in the field, and as part of a team.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate degree or equivalent coursework.
• Achieved programmatic certifications during incarceration.
• Lived experience experts/Credible Messenger who achieved successful re-entry.
• Strong communication, analytical, empathy, and problem-solving skills.
• Experienced in de-escalation techniques.
• Well organized, detail oriented and proficient in time management.
• Essential computer skills including Microsoft Office and Outlook.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Successfully discharged from Community Supervision.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree or other higher education qualifications.
• Three years separated from custody.

Compensation: $55,000 ($28.20/hr)