Mental Health First Aid Corps, Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbilities Services

Posted by Health360 on May 28, 2018

MHFA Corps Program Mission: Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a public education program which introduces participants to the unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems, builds understanding of the importance of early intervention, and teaches individuals how to help someone in crisis or experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge.

Purpose of Position: AmeriCorps Members will serve as MHFA Aid Instructors, certified to teach the 8-hour MHFAUSA course to members of the public.

Responsibilities include:
 Participate in five day MHFA Instructor Course (Date & Location TBD)
 Disseminate MHFA in communities through organizations such as schools, law enforcement, foster care agencies
 Outreach to local community for course participants, as well as recruit and engage community partners
 Market program through press releases, social media and informational sessions
 Track each participant certified through follow up evaluations
 Submit these evaluations as directed to MHFA-USA nationally and Health360
 Enroll in the MHFA-USA Listserve
 List courses on the National Public “Mental Health First Aid In Your Community” Map: Advertise courses and let the public know you are authorized to provide the program.
 Establish and foster relationships with community mental health agencies as partners and resources
 Serve as a resource to MHFA course participants on an ongoing basis
 Respect the privacy of course participants, colleagues and others, including the responsibility to protect personal information
 Advocate for MHFA by promoting the principles whenever possible
 Grant writing to support MHFA Corps activities
 Participate in AmeriCorps large service project
 Participate in monthly calls held nationally by Health360
 Assist host site with ongoing community initiatives and regional events

Experience Preferred:
 Personal and/ or professional knowledge of mental health topics
 Strong teaching and/ or training skills and experience, especially with adult learners
 Understanding of mental health issues and resources
 Skills and experience facilitating diverse groups and creating/maintaining a positive, effective learning environment
 Knowledge about mental health resources in her/his community and state
 Positive attitudes towards individuals with mental illnesses
 Enthusiasm for reducing the stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness and addiction disorders

Details and Benefits include:
 Complete a 10 month commitment, specific dates will be determined by the host site coordinator*
 Full-time AmeriCorps position – 1700 service hours – 40 hours per week, 5 holidays, 2.5 personal days
“a proud member of the AmeriCorps national service network”
 AmeriCorps members receive a $13,732 stipend for their service – paid biweekly = 22 checks
 $5,920 Education Award upon completion of service commitment (1700 service hours)
 Bachelor’s Degree Required

*Term of service is limited to a maximum of 12 months with approval by Health360.

Follow this link to complete an AmeriCorps Application:
https://my.americorps.gov/mp/listing/viewListing.do?id=52020