AMHC Joins Workforce Board’s Recovery Friendly Employer Network

Aroostook Mental Health Services, Inc. (AMHC) has joined the Northeastern Workforce Development Board’s (NWDB) Recovery Friendly Employer network. “AMHC is excited to announce its participation,” said Brittany Ballard, Director of Human Resources. “A major goal of this project is for employers to formally recognize their support of recovery, and then decide how that can be implemented within our own workplace practices.”

NWBD recently voted to create a network and support system for employers that are recovery-friendly. “Addiction and the opioid crisis have hit Maine hard. People in recovery are struggling to find employment and businesses are feeling the impact of substance use disorder,” explains Joanna Russell, Executive Director of the NWDB.  “To help turn the tide, employers can adopt a culture that openly supports recovery, which can improve both employee satisfaction and better our community.

By joining this initiative, AMHC reinforces its commitment to a healthy, safe, and stigma-free work environment to eliminate barriers to recovery for those impacted by addiction. “In early November employees were notified of our involvement,” shared Ballard. “Being designated a Recovery Friendly Employer is a great step in AMHC formally declaring the agency’s support for recovery.”

About NWDB’s Recovery Friendly Employer Network

As a member of the network, employers will have access to tailored advice, workshops, and resource materials. The NWDB will publish a formal list of employees in mid-January 2022. All businesses interested in taking part can visit the NWDB webpage (https://www.northeasternwdb.org/recovery-friendly-employers/) or contact Joanna Russell at 207-951-2549.