What are the responsibilities and job description for the Prevention Specialist position at LifeWays?
Under the supervision and direction of Director, Community-Based Services, the Prevention Specialist is assigned to empower communities to promote alcohol and drug-free lifestyles; build community structures to support those lifestyles; and encourage and support coordinated, systemic approaches to the prevention of substance abuse. This individual works to create and sustain systems and structures that discourage substance abuse, reduce its consequences, and encourage healthy behaviors in children and adults their families, and other adults. The Prevention Specialist provides preventative education and counsel to at-risk populations to protect their health, safety, and welfare.
Essential Functions
- Provides or arranges training, technical assistance, and workforce development for providers, community coalitions and Jackson/Hillsdale County residents on Substance Abuse and Mental Health related topics.
- Works with the Commission on Substance Abuse Community Action Plan to implement Substance Abuse Prevention evidence-based programs or other promising practices.
- Establishes both formal and informal alliances with organizations which have similar or allied goals, such as school boards, local law enforcement, health care providers, community centers, and service providers.
- Collaborates with schools, parent-teacher groups, civic organizations, church groups, and other youth and community organizations to provide information and awareness on alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.
- Networks with other prevention and social service agencies within the region to include prevention, intervention, treatment, and mental health, etc., in order to provide comprehensive services, identify needs, and make referrals as necessary.
- Participates in alcohol, tobacco or other drug awareness campaigns
- Participates in health fairs, business expos, parades and other community events for the purpose of providing anti-substance use messages.
- Assists in providing orientation or information sessions for parents, teachers, staff or administrators in target area school and community sites when requested.
- Prepares and submits budget for programs with Mid-State Health Network
Required Education/Certification/Licensure
- Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services related field with willingness to obtain/fulfill requirements for a Development Plan with MCBAP for Certified Prevention Specialist.
- Master’s Degree in Social Work, or Licensed Professional Counselor LPC, with licensure with the State of Michigan.
- Certified Prevention Specialist (CPS, CPS-DP)
- Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) or Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC), preferred.
- Mental Health First Aid Training, upon hire.