OPWDD Peer Associate - Day Hab

POSITION SUMMARY

The OPWDD Peer Associate provides person-centered, individualized support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) receiving services through the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). The position supports individuals in achieving greater independence, developing meaningful relationships, participating in their communities, pursuing personal goals, and enhancing their overall quality of life. The Peer Associate uses personal experience, lived experience where applicable, empathy, advocacy, and professional skills to establish supportive relationships with individuals.

The position promotes self-determination, choice, recovery, empowerment, and community inclusion while ensuring services are provided in accordance with everyone’s Person-Centered Plan, Life Plan, Staff Action Plan, and all applicable OPWDD regulations and organizational policies.

• Provides direct, person-centered support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Assists individuals in identifying and pursuing personal goals, interests, strengths, and opportunities for greater independence.
• Promotes self-advocacy, informed choice, self-determination, and meaningful participation in all aspects of the individual's life.
• Supports individuals with activities of daily living, as appropriate, including personal care, meal preparation, household responsibilities, mobility, and community participation.
• Assists individuals in developing and maintaining social connections, relationships, and natural supports.
• Facilitates participation in community-based activities, educational opportunities, volunteer experiences, employment, recreational activities, and other personally meaningful pursuits.
• Provides peer support and mentoring, where applicable, by fostering hope, empowerment, resilience, and confidence.
• Assists individuals in navigating challenges, developing coping and problem-solving skills, and identifying strategies that support their personal goals.
• Encourages individuals to express their preferences, needs, concerns, and goals and support them in advocating for themselves.
• Works collaboratively with the individual's interdisciplinary team, including family members, Care Managers, Support Brokers, clinicians, and other service providers, as appropriate.
• Implements individualized plans and supports in accordance with OPWDD requirements and organizational policies.
• Observes and documents an individual's progress, participation, significant events, and other required information accurately and timely.
• Completes all required service documentation, including progress notes, daily documentation, incident reporting, and other records in accordance with agency, Medicaid, and OPWDD requirements.
• Recognizes and promptly report incidents, injuries, allegations, concerns, or changes in an individual's condition in accordance with applicable regulations and agency policy.
• Participates in required meetings, training, supervision, and professional development activities.
• Maintains required certifications, clearances, and training requirements for the position.
• Provides transportation and/or accompany individuals to appointments, activities, and community events, as assigned.

• Collaborates with the interdisciplinary team while maintaining the unique perspective and values of peer support.

• Ensures that all required documentation (paper and electronic) is completed /processed appropriately, in a timely manner, and meets quality and compliance thresholds.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required

• Experience:

• Experience supporting individuals with…