Georgia, August 18, 2025
News Summary
Georgia Southern University has been awarded a $529,144 grant from the Foundation for Opioid Response Efforts to launch the Georgia Recovery-Ready Workplace Initiative. This project aims to create supportive employment opportunities for individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. Led by Dr. Robert Bohler, the initiative seeks to partner with local employers to foster recovery-friendly workplace environments across Georgia, ultimately contributing to economic development and community support.
Georgia Southern University Receives Grant for Groundbreaking Workplace Initiative
In a remarkable step towards building supportive work environments, Georgia Southern University has been awarded a hefty grant of $529,144 from the Foundation for Opioid Response Efforts (FORE). This funding marks the launch of the Georgia Recovery-Ready Workplace (GROW) Initiative, a two-year project designed to open doors for individuals on their road to recovery from substance use disorders.
The Objective of the GROW Initiative
The GROW Initiative is laser-focused on enhancing job opportunities for those who are navigating recovery. The ultimate aim is to engage employers from both rural and urban locales throughout Georgia, helping them to cultivate an atmosphere that is more friendly towards recovery.
At the helm of this exciting initiative is Robert Bohler, Ph.D., who is an assistant professor in the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health (JPHCOPH) and also serves as the executive director of the Center for Addiction Recovery (CAR). His vision for the project revolves around the belief that having a steady job can significantly bolster long-term recovery for individuals facing these challenges.
A Collaborative Effort
The project will be conducted in partnership with the Georgia Council for Recovery (GC4R) and Augusta University’s School of Public Health. Together, they aim to create a comprehensive system that supports individuals in recovery by utilizing a unique “hub-and-spoke” model. In this framework, GC4R will serve as the central hub, coordinating with at least 10 local recovery community organizations (RCOs) acting as spokes, ensuring widespread support across the state.
Enhancing Workplace Dynamics in Georgia
Currently, Georgia is home to 18 Fortune 500 companies and a host of significant manufacturing sites, opening up a wealth of opportunities for economic development aligned with public health. Notably, substance misuse costs U.S. businesses over $81 billion annually, making the need for this initiative even more pressing.
By focusing on creating a recovery-friendly workplace, the GROW initiative aspires to enhance access to meaningful employment for individuals in recovery while nurturing supportive workplace cultures. This will not only benefit the recovering individuals but also contribute to the economic growth of the state.
Building a Strong Community
The GROW Initiative isn’t just about jobs; it’s a movement towards offering individuals dignity, purpose, and the essential community connections that are vital for a successful recovery journey. With initiatives like this, the hope is to create a national model that could serve as a benchmark for others looking to build and sustain recovery-friendly environments.
Call to Action for Employers
The GROW Initiative is actively seeking employers throughout Georgia to step up and participate in this transformative journey. By joining forces, they can help create workplaces that not only accommodate but also celebrate the process of recovery, thus making a profound difference in people’s lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the GROW Initiative?
The GROW Initiative is a project launched by Georgia Southern University to increase employment opportunities for individuals recovering from substance use disorders, promoting supportive workplace environments throughout Georgia.
How will the initiative help individuals in recovery?
The initiative aims to enhance access to stable employment for recovering individuals, supporting their long-term recovery journey and helping them re-integrate into the workforce.
Who is leading the GROW Initiative?
The initiative is led by Dr. Robert Bohler, along with a team of professionals from Georgia Southern University and partnering organizations focusing on recovery and public health.
Can employers get involved?
Yes! The GROW Initiative is actively seeking employers throughout Georgia to join in creating recovery-friendly workplaces, ultimately enriching their communities.
Key Features of the GROW Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | $529,144 from the Foundation for Opioid Response Efforts |
| Purpose | To increase employment opportunities for individuals recovering from substance use disorders |
| Partnerships | Georgia Council for Recovery and Augusta University’s School of Public Health |
| Model Used | Hub-and-spoke model with GC4R as the hub |
| Focus Areas | Engaging large employers in rural and urban communities |
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