Part-Time Peer Advocate for Housing Recovery and Mental Health Services

Description Mental Health America of Los Angeles (MHALA) has been a pioneer in mental health service, advocacy, innovation, and training for nearly a century, working to ensure that people with mental health needs achieve meaningful, healthy lives in their communities.

MHALA is among the largest and most comprehensive nonprofit mental health agencies in Los Angeles County. The agency supports over 19,000 low-income and no-income individuals annually with integrated services. MHALA achieves impact in the areas of mental and physical healthcare, homelessness and housing, supported employment, and wellness and financial services, with special programs for Veterans and transition-age youth.

MHALA also provides training programs for individuals joining the behavioral health workforce and for the larger community around mental health issues.

MHALA works to ensure that its employees are just as cared for as its members. Communication, collaboration, transparency and a healthy work/life balance are core components of the agency culture. Employees are encouraged to engage in self-care and can enjoy a 35-hour workweek.

MHALA fosters diversity at all levels of the organization. The agency promotes a team-oriented culture that offers opportunities for growth. We are proud to offer a competitive salary and full benefits package, including an employee assistance program, and generous paid time off.

Part-Time Peer Advocate

15-19 hours per week / $24.00 per hour

(The actual compensation will be determined based on experience and other factors permitted by law.)

Summary

Under the direct supervision of the team leader provide peer support to members in order to help them reach their individuals goals of independence.

Essential

Duties and Responsibilities

This is not an exhaustive task list, and other duties may be assigned as deemed appropriate or necessary by the supervisor or program director. Reasonable accommodation will be provided to any qualified person with a medical or psychiatric disability, providing it will not change the essential nature of the position, nor cause undue hardship to the Agency’s operations. MHALA is an equal employer opportunity and service provider. The Agency will consider individuals with a criminal history in accordance with both the Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers (FCO) and the California Fair Chance Act (FCA). Facilitate life skills groups. Required to produce 40 hours per month in COS billing. Help to organize existing clubs/groups and provide assistance to help the meeting function smoothly. Support facilitators and members as they carry on the activities of the club/group. Provide peer support to members in order to help them reach their individuals goals of independence. Visit hospitals, group homes, board and care facilities and other similar sites to meet with and provide outreach to mental health consumers and interest them in Discovery Resource Center (DRC) clubs and programs. Outreach to local businesses and social organizations to inform them of the functions of the Discovery Resource Center to make them aware that MHA’s DRC is a resource in the community. Provide updated resources from our community to individuals who come in for services. Attend and participate in staff meetings and works cooperatively with other staff. Make adequate and timely adjustments as needed Assist and support program documentation standards of staff in accordance with MHALA, LACDMH County Contracted Provider standards and funding source requirements, and documents in Electronic Health record (EHR), including 24 hour turnaround documentation. All required data collection documents (as applicable to your program: MORS, Determinants, KEC, IHOMS, HMIS, etc.) are submitted on or before due date. Other Position Requirements: Must have good basic English writing skills, good basic computer skills and be highly organized. Must function well in a team-oriented approach to member services. Proficient in computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook. Ability to relate positively and enthusiastically to a wide variety of people. Flexible work schedule to include some nights, weekends and holidays. Driving with current class C driver’s license, a vehicle for transportation, proof of valid automobile insurance, the ability to be insured by MHALA liability insurance are conditions of employment. TB clearance and re-testing every year are conditions of continued employment. COVID-19 vaccinations or booster shots are not currently required, however this may become a requirement in the future. Failure to abide by any agency policy, including those relating to a vaccine or booster shot may result in termination of employment Employment verification directly from three (3) past employers within the most recent 7-year period