Family Peer Advocate Coordinator– PINS Diversion at Center for Family Life and Recovery – Herkimer, New York

Job Title: Family Peer Advocate – PINS Diversion

Reports To: PINS Co-Directors

Classification: Non-exempt, full-time

Hours: Monday – Friday 8am – 4:30pm, hours may vary depending on needs of the client

Salary Range: $40,000 annually

Family Peer Advocate Coordinator provide support to families raising a child who is experiencing social, emotional, behavioral or developmental challenges in their home, school, placement or community. FPA Coordinators are uniquely qualified to work with families based on their own personal experience parenting a child with similar needs. FPA Coordinators develop a structured, strength-based relationship with families to provide support, information, empowerment, parent skill development and advocacy using strength based, family driven and youth guided care at all levels of contact with families, communities and service providers.

I. Case Management (30%)

Family Peer Advocate (FPA) provides support to families raising a child who is experiencing social, emotional, behavioral or developmental challenges in their home, school, placement or community. FPAs develop a structured, strength-based relationship with families to provide support, information, empowerment, parent skill development and advocacy using strength based, family driven and youth guided care at all levels of contact with families, communities and service providers.

II. Groups (25%)

Family Peer Advocate (FPA) facilitate structured support groups and educational workshops for parents, caregivers, and families involved with the PINS Diversion program and other family-focused services. These groups focus on topics such as strengthening family communication, parenting strategies, understanding adolescent behavior, emotional regulation, conflict resolution, navigating systems of care, and building healthy family relationships. FPAs create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where caregivers feel empowered to share experiences, gain knowledge, and learn from one another. Through guided discussions and interactive activities, FPAs promote family resilience, confidence in parenting, and stronger family connections. Responsibilities include planning group curricula, preparing materials, tracking attendance, documenting sessions, and ensuring group activities align with program goals and the needs of families and caregivers.

III. Community Outreach/Collaborating with Community Resources (20%)

FPA collaborate with community agencies, schools, probation departments, child welfare services, and other family-serving organizations to strengthen coordinated care and increase family engagement in services. They actively participate in outreach efforts to connect with parents and caregivers who may benefit from peer support services, including attending community events, school-based initiatives, and partnership meetings. FPAs assist families in accessing community-based resources such as parenting programs, educational support, behavioral health services, family support services, and other community resources. By building strong relationships within the community, FPAs help create a supportive network that empowers caregivers, strengthens family stability, and promotes positive outcomes for youth and their families.

IV. Meetings (13%)

FPA participates in regular staff meetings, supervision sessions, case conferences, and interdisciplinary team meetings to ensure coordinated and effective service delivery for families. They contribute to the caregiver and family perspective during service planning and coordination discussions, advocating for family voice, choice, and involvement in decision-making. FPAs engage in ongoing professional development and required training to strengthen their knowledge of family peer support practices, trauma-informed care, cultural competency, and relevant child- and family-serving systems. Active participation in meetings ensures alignment with agency standards, supports collaboration among team members, and promotes continued professional growth.

V. Documentation (12%)

FPA is responsible for maintaining accurate, timely, and confidential documentation in accordance with agency policies and regulatory requirements. This includes completing intake documentation, service plans, progress notes, group notes, and other required records that reflect strength-based, family-driven interventions. Documentation clearly outlines goals, services provided, family progress, and outcomes. FPA maintain organized and up-to-date records to ensure continuity of care and compliance with HIPAA and other applicable standards.

Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree and 2-4 years of related experience in human services, education, and mental health/addictions field. Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Have personal experience as a recipient of mental health services and/or substance abuse services with a willingness to share personal and practical experience, knowledge, and first-hand insight to benefit clients.
• FPA Credential is preferred. However, must complete online training within 6-months of hire (dates flexible based upon frequency of in person training)
• Participate in coaching calls
• Demonstrated ability in public speaking and program delivery.
• Current and valid NYS driver’s license.

Work Environment

· Normal room temperature

· Relatively normal noise level (inside & outside).

Physical Demands

· Ability to sit and type at a computer screen for long periods of time.

· Ability to bend and stand for 10-20 minutes at a time.

· Ability to lift and move up to 20 pounds at a time.

· Any other duties as assigned by Co-Directors

Note: This employee must be able to complete all physical requirements of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.