Street Outreach Engagement Peer

Description

Title: Street Outreach and Engagement Peer

Position Type: Full-time, Non-exempt

Reports to: Manager - Onward Westchester

Base Location: Chappaqua

Schedule: Monday - Friday 9am-5pm

Pay Rate: $26.00/hr

About Independent Living, Inc.

Since 1987, Independent Living Inc. (ILI) has been increasing access, encouraging self-determination, and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities in the Hudson Valley, of New York. Following the traditional independent living (IL) model, the majority of ILI’s board and staff are individuals with disabilities and use personal, lived experience to support others in the community – turning perceived deficits into assets.

Why Work with Us?

• Join a mission-driven organization dedicated to building a barrier-free society and supporting independent living
• Be part of a collaborative workplace that embraces diversity and innovation, where every team member’s voice and lived experience are respected and valued
• Be part of an organization that champions inclusive hiring practices and actively welcomes individuals of all abilities, recognizing the value of both visible and non-visible disabilities
• Turn your lived experience into meaningful, purpose-driven work that directly supports individuals in recovery and strengthens your community 
• Grow your career through hands-on experience, peer certification opportunities, and a supportive team that values your voice and perspective

About the Role

The Street Outreach and Engagement Peer uses lived experience to build trust and provide support to individuals navigating recovery, particularly those who are unhoused, in shelters, or disconnected from care. This role focuses on meeting people where they are, physically and emotionally; offering empathy, encouragement, and guidance as they explore pathways to recovery and stability.

Working in the community, the Peer engages individuals through outreach efforts, helping them identify goals, access resources, and build confidence in their own ability to move forward. This role emphasizes partnership over direction; walking alongside individuals rather than doing for them.

What You’ll Do

• Build trusting relationships with individuals who may feel unheard or disconnected
• Provide non-judgmental listening and share hope through lived experience 
• Conduct outreach in the community, including streets, shelters, and events 
• Help individuals explore treatment, recovery, and support options 
• Support individuals in setting personal recovery and wellness goals 
• Connect individuals to resources including housing, healthcare, benefits, employment, and legal services 
• Advocate for individuals’ rights and empower them to self-advocate 
• Facilitate or support peer groups, workshops, and community events 
• Provide emotional support, especially during times of crisis 
• Collaborate with service providers to ensure coordinated care and support

Requirements

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

• Lived experience with substance use recovery, mental health challenges, incarceration, housing instability, or related life experiences 
• High school diploma or GED 
• A clean, valid, unrestricted driver’s license
• Comfort sharing personal experiences in a professional and supportive manner 
• Familiarity with navigating systems such as treatment, housing, and benefits 
• Strong belief in recovery, growth, and personal empowerment 
• Ability to stay organized, manage multiple responsibilities, and work independently 
• Strong communication skills (in-person, phone, and written) 
• Willingness to learn, grow, and accept ongoing support and supervision

It Would Be a Plus If You Also Have

• CRPA (Certified Recovery Peer Advocate), or willingness to obtain within 6 months 
• NYCPS (New York Certified Peer Specialist), or willingness to obtain within 1 year 
• Experience providing peer support or advocacy services 
• Bilingual (English/Spanish)

Success in This Role Will Be Demonstrated Through

• Strong, trust-based relationships with individuals served 
• Increased engagement of individuals in services and recovery supports 
• Successful connection of individuals to community resources and services 
• Consistent and meaningful outreach efforts in the community 
• Positive feedback from participants and community partners 
• Timely and accurate documentation of outreach and engagement activities 
• Demonstrated ability to empower individuals toward self-advocacy and goal achievement

What We Will Provide to You

• A mission-driven and inclusive work environment
• Opportunities to lead and influence organizational technology strategy
• Collaboration with leadership and cross-functional teams
• Professional growth through hands-on technical leadership and innovation
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact through technology

Benefits available to you include

• Paid holidays from the first day of employment
• Paid lunch break
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with company match
• Health, Dental and Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company provided Life, AD&D and Short- and Long-Term disability insurance
• Voluntary insurances including Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity 

We actively support an inclusive hiring process and encourage people with disabilities, visible and non-visible, to apply. If you require reasonable accommodation to support the application or onboarding process, please contact Latoya Merricks at (845) 674-7752.

ILI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic or status protected by applicable law.

To apply, visit us at https://www.myindependentliving.org/careers/