Certified Peer Partner (Youth Partner)

Temecula District Office 41689 Enterprise Cir. North, Suite 120 Temecula, CA 92590, USA Koinonia Family Services is seeking an empathetic and motivated individual for the role of Certified Peer/Youth Partner in our mental health program in Temecula, CA. This part-time position is ideal for former foster youths who have firsthand experience with the child welfare system. The role involves providing support and guidance to current youth in the system, offering them the benefit of your experiences and knowledge, and advocating for their overall well-being. Certification is preferred. Candidates should be certified as a Peer/Youth Partner through the Riverside University Health System (RUHS) Peer Certification Training Program or have completed the 80-hour Peer Certification Training through the California Mental Health Services Authority (CalMHSA). Candidates who are not yet certified but are willing and able to complete the required training and certification within a reasonable period after hire will be considered. Opportunity Highlights Support and mentor youth through their mental health and therapeutic journey. $18.00 to $19.00 per hour for entry level / not yet certified; $20.00 to $22.00 per hour for those already certified and depending upon experience. Flexible hours and schedule. Benefits include paid time off (PTO) and participation in a 401k plan. Paid holidays when your schedule is 15+ hours a week. Professional training and development opportunities. Mileage reimbursement for business miles driven. This is a part-time position. The schedule is about 5-10 hours per week, with occasional evening and weekend hours, and may increase up to 20 hours per week as families are referred for services. Key Responsibilities Mentor and serve as a role model for young people. Provide guidance, advice, and support to youth. Advocate for the needs and rights of young people. Assist in accessing resources and services. Promote mental health and mental wellness. Develop personalized plans and goals with youth. Intervene during crises or emergencies. Connect youth with community resources and opportunities. Maintain accurate documentation and reporting. Collaborate with other professionals and organizations. Engage in continuous professional development. Evaluate and monitor program effectiveness. Complete required initial training, including Youth Partner training through RUHS and 80 hours of Peer Certification Training through CalMHSA. Qualifications Certification by RUHS as a Peer/Youth Partner. Lived experience in the child welfare system. Progress in personal journey sufficient to positively contribute to others. Strong desire to help youth achieve successful outcomes. Maturity and ability to provide guidance, support, and mentorship. Strong interpersonal, communication, writing, and active listening skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. High degree of integrity and respect for confidentiality. Flexible schedule to meet program needs. Ability to travel and drive up to one hour from the primary job site as needed. Qualified candidates must complete a criminal background clearance through the California Department of Justice and FBI, as well as a pre‑employment physical and TB test. This position requires a valid driver’s license, auto insurance, and reliable transportation as driving is an essential job function. Youth Partners are responsible for visiting client homes, transporting youth, and engaging with community partners, often in locations not easily accessible by alternative transportation. Koinonia Family Services is an equal‑opportunity employer. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor. #J-18808-Ljbffr Koinonia-Family-Services