Position Summary: 

The Independent Living Support Specialist will collaborate with individuals, families, and case managers to develop and implement transition plans focused on building essential independent living skills. This role involves promoting well-being and self-direction while assisting in training team members to enhance independence-building strategies. The specialist will provide education, modeling, and supportive services, fostering positive relationships to strengthen family bonds and encourage active participation in planning for independence.

Essential Job Functions:

• Promote well-being, self-direction, and case plan completion to support successful transitions to independent living.
• Collaborate with the individual, family, and case manager to create a transition plan focused on building independent living skills.
• Assist in training team members and provide back-up support to enhance independence-building strategies.
• Develop positive relationships with individuals to strengthen family bonds, enhance communication, and foster active participation in planning for independence.
• Provide modeling, education, and supportive services to help individuals develop necessary skills for independent living.

• Organize and, when needed, participate in all mandated staffing meetings for each assigned youth, as outlined by current law (ages 13 through 17 ¾).
• Offer support by sharing personal experiences, helping individuals navigate resources, and encouraging goal-setting for greater self-sufficiency.
• Arrange or provide transportation to appointments, visitations, or activities that support independence.
• Monitor quality of care by maintaining regular contact with individuals via phone, or home visits to support their path to independence.
• Assist with visits, in-home services, or other tasks aimed at fostering independent living skills.
• Participate in weekly staff meetings to discuss client progress and refine strategies for enhancing independence.
• Collaborate closely with Case Managers and peer staff in preparing youth for adulthood and submitting required documentation per legal guidelines.
• Other duties as assigned.

Essential Qualifications:

Certifications/Licensures:

• Certified Recover Peer Specialists or Certified Recovery Support Specialist through the Florida Certification Board must be obtained within one (1) year of hire; preference will be given to candidates who are currently certified.

Education:

• Training and/or experience in Child Welfare is preferred.
• Two (2) years demonstrated recovery time from a significant mental health and/or substance abuse disorder at the date of application and within the last year either maintained at least 12 months of successful work or volunteer experience.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.

Experience and Competencies:

• Bilingual is preferred.
• Physical required prior to hire; paid by agency
• Expertise with the Florida Child Welfare Practice Model and knowledgeable in Child Welfare electronic system of record (FSFN or CCWIS).
• Possess strong leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Availability to work a