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SCO Family of Services

Family Peer Advocate

SCO Family of Services, Deer Park, New York, United States, 11729

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PURPOSE OF THE POSITION : To provide a structured, strength-based relationship between a Family Peer Advocate (FPA) and the Parent/Family member/Caregiver for the benefit of the Child/youth. Services are delivered in a trauma-informed, culturally and linguistically competent manner. Activities must be aimed at achieving the goals or objectives outlined in the child/youth’s services plan. The FPA supports families and acts as a liaison between families, staff, community, and other family-related support services. I. SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES Operate from a Strength-Based and Family-Driven Care Perspective. Serve as a bridge between families, service providers, and the CR staff, fostering productive and respectful partnerships by helping families express their strengths, needs, and goals. Connect families with appropriate services and supports, including community exposure and family engagement with the entire CR team. Support and assist families during

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stages of transition. Promote continuity of engagement and supports as families’ needs and services evolve. Encourage self-advocacy, self-efficacy, and empowerment within families. Assist families in identifying and setting goals and short-term objectives. Help parents develop parenting skills. Attend required meetings and trainings. Ensure services are delivered as outlined in treatment plans. Submit progress notes and documentation within required timeframes. Report incidents to the supervisor upon discovery. Perform other duties as assigned. Ensure family voice and choice are present in ALL service delivery! II. QUALIFICATIONS - Must be a New York State Credentialed Family Peer Advocate (FPA). - Demonstrated “lived experience” as a parent or primary caregiver navigating child-serving systems, preferably with out-of-home placement experience. 1. High school diploma or equivalency preferred; a State Education Credential (e.g., SACC or CDOS) is acceptable. This requirement can be waived if relevant life experience and competencies are demonstrated. 2. Completion of Level One of the Parent Empowerment Program Training for Family Peer Advocates or an approved equivalent. 3. Submission of two reference letters attesting to proficiency and suitability for the role. 4. Agreement to practice according to the Family Peer Advocate Code of Ethics. Those with a Provisional Credential must complete all other credential requirements within 18 months of employment. - Must be reliable, able to work independently, and maintain confidentiality. - Valid Driver’s License and satisfactory driving record if driving is required. - Cleared by the NYS Justice Center through fingerprinting for a Criminal History Records search. - Cleared by the NYS Office of Children and Family Services regarding child abuse/neglect cases. III. KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS Ability to assess the needs of individuals and families at admission and throughout care. Effective verbal and written communication skills, positive interpersonal skills, and a professional, strength-based approach. Ability to collaborate within a multidisciplinary team. Familiarity with electronic record systems, meeting deadlines, and willingness to grow are essential. Knowledge of common challenges related to mental health and SED behaviors. Proficiency in crisis de-escalation and intervention techniques. Ability to navigate various service systems such as Transitional & In-Home Services, Education, DSS, SSI, OASIS, OMH, OCFS. IV. RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHERS Maintain a strength-based approach when working with children and families. Accept and apply constructive feedback from supervisors. Be a team player. Respect cultural differences among staff and clients. Believe in people's capacity to grow and change; build respectful partnerships with persons served and their families. Set limits and intervene appropriately to maintain the helping role. V. WORKING CONDITIONS Work effectively within trauma-informed practices. Services are delivered in community settings identified by families. SCO provides transportation and technology resources, ensuring compliance with HIPAA and encryption policies. VI. TRAINING REQUIREMENTS Orientation prior to service delivery, including Therapeutic Crisis Intervention and Mandated Reporter Training. Within 6 months of hire, enrolled in and complete trainings via LMS (RELIAS): Personal Safety, Strength-Based Approaches, Suicide Prevention, Domestic Violence, Trauma-Informed Care, Cultural Diversity, HIPAA Compliance, and other relevant trainings. All FPAs billing for CFTSS must complete SCO CFTSS Training Requirements. About the company

SCO supports young children, youth, and families, focusing on early development, youth independence, and unlocking potential for individuals with special needs. We offer unconditional care and strive for life-changing results.

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