The Certified Peer Specialist provides one-on-one support to youth and families, helping them set recovery goals and access community resources. They also collaborate with clinical teams to ensure effective care planning, crisis management, and documentation compliance.
Requirements summary
Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in social work or a related field and possess a valid Wisconsin Peer Specialist Certification. At least one year of experience in community-based support and a valid driver's license are also required.
Description Certified Peer Specialist CORE/CCS–Youth Milwaukee, WI | Social Services FLSA Status: Salaried
Salary Range
$35,796.28 to $40,145.56
Description La Causa Inc.
Social Services is dedicated to empowering youth and young adults with complex mental health and developmental needs, along with their families, through compassionate, coordinated, and person-centered care.
We are seeking a motivated and recovery-focused Certified Peer Specialist to join our CORE and CCS Youth Programs.
In this role, you will use your lived experience in recovery as a powerful tool to inspire, guide, and support youth and young adults.
You will help individuals build self-direction, develop meaningful goals, and navigate challenges while promoting hope, resilience, and independence.
Why Join La Causa, Inc.?
Meaningful work that supports youth and families on their recovery journey Collaboration with experienced and compassionate professionals Opportunities for professional development and career advancement Comprehensive benefits and paid leave—including a day off for your birthday!
Your Role: As a Certified Peer Specialist, you will provide one-on-one, community-based support to youth engaged in CORE and CCS services.
You will draw from your personal recovery experience to foster trust, encourage growth, and help youth connect to the resources and supports needed to achieve their goals.
What You’ll Do: Provide Individual Support – Work one-on-one with youth to support their recovery goals using strength-based and person-centered approaches.
Promote Recovery & Self-Direction – Share recovery knowledge and lived experience to empower youth in setting and achieving meaningful goals.
Support Crisis Planning – Help individuals develop strategies to navigate and manage crises effectively.
Connect to Resources – Link youth and families to community supports, services, and natural support systems.
Encourage Team Engagement – Assist in building a network of supports, including family and community providers.
Ensure Compliance – Complete timely documentation (progress notes, reports) and adhere to all legal, organizational, and contractual requirements.
Benefits
Paid leave
Professional development
Career advancement
Birthday day off
Build Relationships – Maintain strong communication and collaboration with families, providers, and team members.
Mandated Reporting – Fulfill responsibilities as a mandated reporter in accordance with policy and law.
Professional Development – Participate in meetings, supervision, and training opportunities.
Be a Team Player – Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members to ensure coordinated care.
What We’re Looking For: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related field (Required) Master’s degree in Social Work or related field (Highly Preferred) Valid Wisconsin Peer Specialist Certification OR ability to obtain certification within 12 months of hire (Required) At least one (1) year of experience working in a community-based setting Strong cultural competency and interpersonal skills Bilingual (Spanish and English), spoken and written (Preferred) Excellent verbal, written, and documentation skills across diverse populations Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed Must pass all required background checks, including annual influenza vaccination Valid Wisconsin driver’s license, reliable transportation, and state minimum auto insurance Skills & Competencies: Person-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed approach Effective communication and relationship-building skills Ability to inspire hope and motivate others through lived experience Strong organizational and time management abilities Work Environment: Work takes place in community and office settings, with local travel required Some statewide travel may be required Flexible schedule based on program and participant needs Physical Demands: Regular driving, standing, sitting, walking, bending, and reaching Frequent communication (talking/hearing) and computer use Occasional light lifting (e.g., files) Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities Reports To: Clinician / Therapist / Supervisor – CORE/CCS Youth
About La Causa Inc
La Causa, Inc., founded in 1972, is one of Wisconsin's largest bilingual, multicultural agencies. Our mission is to provide children, youth, and families with quality, comprehensive services to nurture healthy family life and enhance community stability. At the heart of our mission is Familia La Causa—our dedicated staff committed to serving the Milwaukee community with compassion and excellence.
