Conduct outreach to market services and engage community members with serious mental illness and substance use disorder. Provide information to service clients/recipients for every phase of recovery, reentry, chronic health, and/or mental and behavioral health management. Collaborate with professionals to assess client needs or plan treatments. Assist clients in identifying their interests, goals, strengths, and weaknesses; and coach clients in developing their plan. Develop relationships with community groups/agencies in partnership with others in the agency. Actively identify and support linkages to community resources that support the client’s goals and interests. Identify barriers (internal and external) to full participation in community resources and develop strategies to overcome those. Maintain contact with the clients to ensure their ongoing success and to provide re-engagement support in partnership with others in the agency if needed. Maintain client and social program records and prepare and maintain project logs, reports, and inappropriate files and database(s)Perform other duties and special projects as assigned Minimum Qualifications Required:High school diploma or equivalent. One (1) year (12 months) of “lived” (or extensive "lived") experienceii in sustained recovery and reentry in the area(s) of specialization inherent to the position or of work experienceii: Incarceration Chronic health management (diabetes, hypertension, cancer, etc.) Mental/behavioral health management Substance abuse (illicit drug or alcohol dependency) Eighteen months (18 months) of work experience comparable to the Peer Support Assistant of this series.iii Possession of a valid and current CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) or a Recovery Support Certification. Possession of a valid and current State of Illinois driver’s license, and proof of insurance at the time of appointment. ii Note: This experience may include personal experience as a parent, guardian, or a loved one you have supported through such a journey. iii Note: The possession of a valid and current Certification in the area(s) of specialization inherent to the position from an accredited organization may be substituted for #3 above if not used to meet the Minimum Acceptable Qualification. Preferred Qualifications:Spanish-language preferred. The possession, or completion within six months, of a valid and current. Certification in Peer Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Community Health. Worker from an accredited organization may be substituted for #3 above. Knowledge of principles and processes for providing peer support services. Knowledge of the community and resources. Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, data entry, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology. Knowledge of electronic equipment, computer hardware, and software, and their applications. Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic peer support planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources. Skill in-service orientation – anticipating, recognizing, and meeting others’ needs. Skill in active listening (giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions when appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times). Skill in talking to others to convey information effectively. Skill in analyzing situations and finding workable solutions (critical thinking). Skill in using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to programs. Ability to exhibit strong organizational skills and maintain detailed, accurate records. Ability to communicate effectively as appropriate for the needs of the audience. Ability to interpret work related documents, policies, and procedures. Ability to identify complex problems and review related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions. Ability to set priorities and manage one’s own time and the time of others effectively. Ability to work independently and exercise judgment. Ability to work as a member of a team. To Apply: For fullest consideration click on the Apply Now button, please fully complete all sections of the online application including adding your full work history with specific details of your duties & responsibilities for each position held. Fully complete the education, licensure, certification and language sections. You may upload a resume, cover letter, certifications, licensures, transcripts and diplomas within the application. Please note that once you have submitted your application you will not be able to make any changes. In order to revise your application you must withdraw and reapply. You will not be able to reapply after the posting close date. Please ensure the application is fully completed and all supporting documents have been uploaded before the posting close date. Illinois Residency is required within 180 days of employment.