In a significant move to promote recovery-friendly workplace policies, HRCI joined forces with business leaders, labor organizations, and government officials at the White House for the National Recovery Event. The event, held in September as part of National Recovery Month, highlighted the pressing need to support employees on their recovery journeys. Dr. Amy Dufrane, CEO of HRCI, and Andre T. Allen, Board Chair of HRCI, represented the human resources sector during this vital initiative.
Since its inception in 1989, National Recovery Month has played a crucial role in promoting new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices. With over 21 million Americans in recovery from substance use disorder (SUD), the significance of support systems in the workplace has never been more crucial. In 2023, over 30 million Americans with SUD were part of the workforce, with nearly 80 percent working full-time. This underscores the role employers must play in providing resources that help these individuals recover and thrive.
As part of the Biden-Harris Administration's broader strategy to confront the national substance use crisis, the White House emphasized the importance of recovery-ready workplaces. This initiative falls under President Biden’s Unity Agenda, aimed at reducing stigma and supporting millions of Americans in recovery. During the event, preliminary findings from a new survey on "Recovery Friendly Workplaces," conducted by HRCI and Fors Marsh, were shared. These findings shed light on current employer policies and practices relating to SUD.
White House Office of National Drug Policy Director, Dr. Rahul Gupta, commented, “The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to ensuring that every American has the resources they need to recover and thrive. Employers play a critical role in supporting the recovery journey, and we are grateful to the business leaders joining us at the White House today.”
Dr. Amy Dufrane, HRCI's CEO, stated, “This is a prime example of how the public and private sectors can work together to build stronger workforces. At HRCI, we’re committed to ensuring that HR professionals have access to the training they need to help employees recover from substance abuse.”
Concluding her remarks, Dr. Dufrane highlighted the wide-reaching benefits of supporting employees in recovery, stating, “Winning the battle with addiction benefits employees, employers, families, and communities by enabling valuable talent to remain in the workplace.”
The event served as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to foster recovery-ready workplaces, ensuring a supportive environment for those on their recovery journey while enhancing organizational strength and community well-being.