HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) and the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) have introduced a free virtual training series designed to help employers create and maintain recovery-friendly workplaces. This effort, titled “Shatter the Stigma: Supporting Recovery in the Workplace ECHO,” is developed in collaboration with Penn State College of Medicine and aims to equip employers with the necessary tools to support employees recovering from substance use disorders (SUD).
The training series comes at a critical time, aligning with National Recovery Month, which celebrates the progress of individuals in recovery and emphasizes that recovery is attainable for everyone. The 2024 theme, “Recovery is For Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community,” highlights the universal nature of recovery and the collective effort required to support it.
L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker emphasized the dual benefits of the program, stating, “Employment plays a crucial role in stabilizing recovery and mitigating the effects of the opioid crisis. By equipping employers with the knowledge and tools to foster supportive work environments for individuals in recovery, we can not only reduce turnover and training costs but also retain valuable skills within our workforce.”
The initiative is part of a broader strategy funded by the U.S. Department of Labor through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Grant, totaling over $214,000. It seeks to address and reduce the stigma associated with SUD in the workplace, an issue that often leads to unnecessary terminations and missed opportunities for both employees and employers.
Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, DDAP Secretary, commended the proactive approach, noting, “I applaud the Department of Labor & Industry for addressing stigma head on. We know that, unfortunately, stigma still casts a shadow over people battling substance use disorder and programs like this will help reverse that trend.”
Project ECHO’s Director, Jennifer L. Kraschnewski, MD, MPH, highlighted the impact of the initiative, stating, “As a result of this funding, an expanding network of over 180 employers across the Commonwealth will have an opportunity to learn from experts and peers in the field to ultimately enhance recovery outcomes and strengthen workplace well-being.”
The training sessions will be conducted virtually, offering lectures, presentations, and interactive discussions led by experts in various fields, including addiction medicine, social work, and human resources. This format allows for broad participation and ensures that employers can access valuable insights without the need for physical attendance.
In addition to the training series, DDAP continues to partner with organizations such as Penn State Harrisburg’s Douglas W. Pollock Center for Addiction Outreach and Research, The Public Good Projects, and Shatterproof to drive the Life Unites Us campaign. This campaign, launched in 2020, uses social media and webinars to share personal stories and strategies for combating stigma, further reinforcing the message that recovery is possible and should be supported.
The initiative represents a significant step forward in addressing the opioid crisis within Pennsylvania’s workplaces, fostering environments where recovery is supported and stigma is actively challenged. By empowering employers with knowledge and resources, the program not only aids individuals in recovery but also enhances the overall health and productivity of the workforce, contributing to a more resilient economy and community.
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