Summer Youth Peer Advocate

Job Title:

Summer Youth Peer Advocate

REPORTS TO

Director of Youth Programs Job Type:

In-Person Schedule:

Temporary Summer Part Time up to 25 hours per week,

Non-Exempt Wage:

$18.50 per hour

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

The Partnership for Ontario County (recently rebranded as Ontario Cares) connects neighbors to empower and strengthen Ontario County's community safety net. We operate community-based programs including the EPIC Zone Youth Clubhouses, counseling and wellness services, food access initiatives, countywide prevention coalitions focused on suicide prevention, substance misuse, and veterans, and Ontario County Youth Court. At our core, Ontario Cares brings people and organizations together to create practical, community-driven solutions that support youth, families, and residents across the county.

PURPOSE OF JOB

The purpose of this position is to provide peer support, mentorship, and relationship-centered engagement for youth and their families through direct support, skill development, and positive peer connection. This role assists youth in building emotional regulation, coping strategies, healthy relationships, and personal growth by offering relatable guidance, early intervention support, and facilitated peer discussions. The position supports youth and families in identifying strengths, setting goals, and navigating resources while promoting emotional and relational safety. Working under structured supervision, this role models positive communication, supports outreach and engagement efforts, and helps create a safe, supportive environment that empowers youth development and well-being. If the candidate is not already certified then the Partnership for Ontario County will provide the training and the candidate will become certified within the first 90 days of employment. This position is anticipated to work from July 6 August 28 with the potential to extend beyond these dates.

OVERVIEW

The Certified Youth Peer Support Specialist or Certified Family Peer Advocate provides peer-based support, mentorship, and advocacy services to youth and their families through relationship-centered, strength-based engagement. Drawing from lived experience, the Certified Peer Advocate helps youth develop emotional regulation skills, healthy coping strategies, positive relationships, and pathways toward personal growth and future success. The role supports youth empowerment, promotes emotional and relational safety, and connects youth to resources and supportive services while operating under structured supervision.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

Provide direct peer support and mentorship to youth and/or their families Assist youth with emotional regulation and coping skills Support youth engagement and relationship building Help facilitate peer support activities and discussions Support referral connections and resource navigation Assist in maintaining relational and emotional safety The Certified Peer will

Offer:

Relatable guidance Mentoring Early intervention support Facilitate peer discussion circles Help youth and their families develop healthy relationships Empower youth and families to identify: Personal strengths Goals Pathways toward future development Support engagement and relational safety Model positive communication and coping skills Assist with youth outreach and peer connection Operate under structured supervision

WHO YOU ARE

Required Qualifications:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent. Valid NYS Driver's License.

Lived Experience:

Must have first-hand experience with: Emotional (mental health) challenges, Behavioral challenges, Co-occurring disorders, Or involvement with: Juvenile justice, Special education, Substance use disorder, Foster care Willingness to participate in peer certification training, with certification required within 90 days of employment.

Preferred Qualifications:

Certified Youth Peer Support Specialist certification or Certified Family Peer advocate from OMH or OASAS. Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. The Partnership for Ontario County is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees.

Work Location:

In person

Pay:

$18.50 per hour

Benefits:

Mileage reimbursement

Work Location:

In person