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Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 20, 2025
CONTACT: Laina Stebbins, 517-241-2112, [email protected]
Michigan employers invited to join
Recovery Friendly Workplace initiative
LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Michigan Public Health Institute (MPHI) have launched a statewide initiative to create healthier, more efficient workplaces through the Michigan Recovery Friendly Workplace (MI RFW) program. Through MI RFW, employers are encouraged to create supportive environments for employees in recovery from substance use disorder while enhancing overall workplace wellness.
The initiative provides education to leadership and human resources staff on substance use disorder, stigma, recovery, supportive policies, community resources and the safe administration of naloxone. This education is crucial in identifying opportunities to support employees, reduce unscheduled absences, lower employee turnover and decrease recruitment, training and health care costs.
“We believe that everyone deserves a fresh start, and the Michigan Recovery Friendly Workplace program is a testament to our commitment to supporting individuals in recovery,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “By fostering healthier, more inclusive workplaces, we can help individuals rebuild their lives and contribute positively to Michigan communities.”
Businesses that become a Recovery Friendly Workplace demonstrate a commitment to employee well-being by supporting access to treatment and recovery benefits, building retention programs and fostering a stigma-free culture. For employees, employment is a vital aspect of recovery, offering financial stability, structure, routine, access to resources, skill development, social connections and improved self-esteem.
The MI RFW initiative is a statewide program funded by MDHHS through a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration State Opioid Response grant.
Participation in the MI RFW program provides employers:
- Training and resources for leadership and staff – participating employers receive specialized training at no cost.
- Community partnerships – collaborate with local recovery organizations to ensure a robust support network for employees. These organizations provide peer recovery coach assistance, naloxone training and help employees maintain recovery.
- Recognition and certification – MDHHS will certify businesses for their commitment to employee wellness and will list them on the MI RFW job board.
Key facts:
- In 2022, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported that 30.6 million Americans with a substance use disorder were employed, with 78% (23.8 million) working full-time.
- Workers in recovery are absent 13.7 fewer days per year compared to workers with an untreated substance use disorder, and 3.6 fewer days than an average employee (NORC at the University of Chicago and National Safety Council).
- Employees in recovery save their employers an average of $8,500 annually, with $8,175 attributable to avoiding turnover, replacement and health care costs.
Mission Restaurant Group, which manages and operates establishments such as Jolly Pumpkin, Grizzly Peak and Blue Tractor BBQ & Brewery, received their designation as adopters of the RFW initiative in September 2024.
“Becoming a Recovery Friendly Workplace was a natural extension of our commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment for our team,” said David Richie, president and CEO of Mission Restaurant Group. “We recognize the importance of providing resources and fostering understanding for individuals in recovery as they rebuild their lives and careers. Through training and open conversations, our team has grown closer, and we’ve seen firsthand the positive impact of reducing stigma and supporting recovery.”
Organizations of all sizes and sectors are encouraged to take part. Visit RecoveryFriendlyMI.org to learn more or contact program staff at [email protected]. |
