Shatter the Stigma: Supporting Recovery in the Workplace ECHO By The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry

The 2024-2025 ECHO series may have concluded, but the learning continues! Recordings of past sessions are now available, giving employers access to expert insights and practical strategies for fostering a more recovery-friendly workplace. These sessions provide valuable guidance on reducing stigma, improving workplace well-being, and supporting employee recovery. Explore the resources below to deepen your understanding and bring positive change to your organization.

Transforming Workplace Perspectives on Addition

Our Mission

Empower employers to build a more recovery-friendly workplace by reducing stigma and preventing unnecessary terminations of employees facing treatable episodes of recidivism. Through knowledge and practical tools, we foster understanding, support, and opportunity—ensuring every individual has a fair chance to succeed in their recovery journey and contribute meaningfully to the workforce.

Our Values

Guiding Principles

  • Employers are the experts in what works in their business.
  • Employment is an important factor in recovery and combating the impact of the opioid crisis.
  • By mindfully creating more supportive work environments for those in recovery, we can tap into a valuable segment of the labor force.

The ECHO Model

  • ECHO sessions: 1-hour, includes a brief educational presentation with Q&A, plus group discussion on anonymized employee cases.
  • ECHO purpose: A virtual learning community helping companies support employees, led by experts in addiction, HR, and probation.
  • Learning approach: Real-world cases foster learning from experts and peers, sharing best practices, lessons, and resources.

Benefits to Employers

  • Discover how supporting employees in recovery strengthens both the workplace and their path to success.
  • Education and training empower employers to normalize recovery, break stigma, and cultivate a healthier workplace.
  • Enhance your understanding of addiction and recovery with expert guidance.
  • A recovery-friendly workplace boosts well-being, reduces turnover, increases productivity, and strengthens the workforce.

Benefits to Employees

  • More secure and stable employment
  • Financial stability
  • Reduce stress and anxiety, thereby minimizing a potential trigger for relapse
  • Improved well-being and quality of life
  • More likely to maintain sobriety

Training Resources

Series Overview

Success Stories

High participation rate
New PA CareerLink® Business Partnerships

Credits:

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