Certified Peer Specialists (Together We Rise)

PAY RATE: $19.23/ HOUR
Do you envision working for a dynamic, mission-driven organization which supports the community while fostering an employee culture of appreciation and fun? If your answer is yes, than an employment opportunity at Directions for Living may be a great fit for you! We offer an excellent salary and benefits package to include employer paid health insurance premiums for all full time employees, PTO and paid company holidays, 403b retirement, EAP, and year-round employee wellness and appreciation initiatives.
Position Summary
We are seeking caring, compassionate, mission driven Peer Specialists to work specifically with children and their families who have come to the attention of the child protective investigation division of the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, and who have been determined to be safe but at high risk of future child abuse, and neglect. Together We Rise (TWR) will work with all members of the family with a team based approach in a supportive, empowering and respectful manner to assist the family with creating safe and stable parenting practices to facilitate long-term behavior change that will ensure that children are safe in their home.
Requirements for the Peer Specialist position is relevant lived experience in child welfare, mental health or substance use and in active recovery. The Peer Specialist will work with the team to bring the perspective of having navigated multiple systems in an effort to benefit from services and to achieve recovery. The Peer Specialist will assist case givers with understanding the need for services, the benefits of active and consistent participation in the program and will assist caregivers with getting and remaining on track with case plan goals. The value of someone who has walked in the client's shoes is invaluable. The peer specialist is direct, honest, and sympathetic and is able to offer practical strategies and is designed to hold clients accountable. The Peer specialist works with the client daily to get to resources, and to make connections with others to develop meaningful relationships. This position is an invaluable member at the IDT staffing as the advocate and support to the family, emphasizing the progress being made. Their role is to increase mental wellness that includes recovery concepts and principles to support resiliency within the community as well as reduce stigma that is related to mental health diagnoses, including but not limited to: cultural beliefs, crisis intervention and treatment services. This is a field based position and all services must be provided face to face. There is no opportunity for the provision of services from a remote location and services are not provided virtually.
Directions for Living is an essential services provider. All Directions for Living employees must be willing and able to provide vital support and essential services to the people that we serve in the event of an emergency, pandemic or other disaster situation. Essential employees may be required to work in the field, be "on call" depending on the needs of the individual being served.
Education Experience/Requirements

• Relevant lived experience in child welfare, mental health or substance use treatment and recovery.
• High School Diploma or GED preferred.