by David Shapiro | April 24, 2026
The Centers for Health, Work & Environment, in partnership with The Steadman Group, released a new report examining recovery, workforce development, and employer engagement in Colorado. The report provides a unique look at how Recovery Community Organizations, workforce development partners, and employers support individuals in recovery.
Key Findings
The report highlights several key insights about the current state of workplace-supported recovery. There is a disconnect between employee awareness and workplace programs, policies, and practices.
Employees affected by substance use disorders report immediate needs for enhanced support. Stigma remains a pressing barrier. Persistent fear of judgment, concerns about confidentiality, and worries about consequences for advancement are actively discouraging employees from seeking help. Even in workplaces with existing benefits, these obstacles demand urgent attention.
Although most employees report access to general supports such as health insurance and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), opportunities to strengthen peer support and improve access to recovery-specific resources remain. Formal peer support structures within workplaces are limited, despite growing recognition of their potential value.
Alongside these findings, one message is consistent: employers want to do more.
Organizations across industries recognize the impact of substance use on their workforce and are increasingly motivated to create supportive environments. However, many report uncertainty about how to move from intention to implementation. The report highlights this tension: strong employer interest paired with insufficient infrastructure and a lack of clear pathways for action.
The Opportunity
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), supported by trained peer support specialists, are a promising and practical solution to addressing the gap.
ERGs provide a structured approach for employees to connect and share experiences. By bolstering peer support and curating existing benefits and policies into accessible, real-world resources, ERGs create an environment where employees in recovery can find guidance, encouragement, and practical assistance within their workplace. They can be implemented in organizations of any size or industry. Their adaptability allows employers to tailor support and resources to specific workforce needs.
Report findings reinforce a pressing reality: awareness of substance use and recovery is rising, but workplace systems and supports must catch up rapidly to address urgent needs.
Employers may recognize the need, but often lack the structure, resources, or partnerships required to offer effective, research-informed solutions.
Key opportunities identified in the report include expanding access to peer support and strengthening connections between workplaces and community-based recovery organizations.
Moving Forward
Across Colorado, there is growing alignment among employers, public health, and recovery organizations on the importance of workplace-supported recovery.
“Employers are asking for practical ways to support their workforce. This report makes it clear that solutions exist. By integrating peer support into Employee Resource Groups, we have an opportunity to meet employees where they are and build workplaces where people can both work and recover successfully.”
–Dr. Lili Tenney, Director of Outreach and Programs, Centers for Health, Work & Environment
The report emphasizes a timely opportunity to expand employer-driven, practical recovery support by integrating peer support in Employee Resource Groups.
Learn More
Take the next step to support employees in recovery. Contact the Colorado Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative today to launch or strengthen your ERG and access expert guidance.
- Schedule a virtual appointment to learn more about RFW and ERGs.
- Download the Landscape Report
