State-backed program to support mental health and substance use recovery through employer resources and innovative certification program.
AURORA, COLORADO (January 23, 2025) – The Centers for Health, Work, and Environment (CHWE) at the Colorado School of Public Health (ColoradoSPH) has launched the Colorado Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative™, a voluntary certification program designed to help employers support workers facing substance use and mental health challenges.
With an estimated 400,000 Coloradans in recovery and the state losing an estimated 360 million work hours annually due to the opioid crisis, this program addresses an urgent need. Employers are pivotal in reducing stigma, offering resources, and fostering workplaces that improve employee well-being.
Supporting Employers and Employees: Employers who support workers in recovery save an average of $8,500 per employee annually, in productivity and healthcare related costs, reinforcing that investing in mental health and recovery benefits both employees and businesses. “Now more than ever, employers must create supportive, recovery-friendly workplaces. This program isn’t just about individual employees—it’s about strengthening entire communities and improving public health,” said Lili Tenney, DrPH, MPH, assistant professor at ColoradoSPH and project lead for the Initiative.
A Comprehensive Resource Hub: “We are thrilled to officially launch the Colorado Recovery Friendly Workplaces Initiative, along with our new website and certification program,” said David Shapiro, assistant director of programs and partnerships at CHWE and ColoradoSPH lead on the Colorado Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative. “Our goal has always been to bring business leaders together to create supportive, inclusive work environments across industries that help individuals in recovery thrive. With this new platform, we’re taking a major step forward in providing the resources, guidance, and certification employers need to implement recovery-friendly workplace principles and address substance misuse proactively.”
The program includes a new website—www.CORecoveryFriendlyWorkplace.org—which offers training, policy templates, and guidance for creating recovery-friendly environments. Employers can access resources for implementing mental health training, planning recovery-supportive events, drafting recovery-supportive policies, and fostering empathy in workplace conversations.
Statewide Impact and Certification: The Initiative has garnered support from more than 90 organizations across 19 Colorado counties. Employers can sign a Letter of Intent and participate in a straightforward certification process, receive tailored advice, and gain tools to enhance workplace culture. Certified employers will also receive recognition for their commitment to public health.
Industry-Leading Partners: Participating businesses from sectors such as healthcare, construction, and hospitality have praised the Initiative for its practical approach. “Participating in this program has strengthened our workplace culture. Supporting employees in recovery helps create a positive ripple effect in our community,” said Cara and Cliff Blauvelt, owners of Odie B’s, a Denver restaurant pursuing certification.
Driving Meaningful Change: By addressing the stigma surrounding substance use and mental health, the Colorado Recovery Friendly Workplaces Initiative sets a new standard for creating inclusive workplaces. As the program expands, it offers a model for other states to follow. The Initiative demonstrates how investing in recovery-friendly policies can lead to more resilient communities, healthier workforces, and thriving workplaces.
For more information, visit www.CORecoveryFriendlyWorkplace.org.
