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National Recovery Friendly Workplace Institute

As the United States continues to be challenged by Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and drug poisonings, the latest research shows that a key component of maintaining SUD recovery is related to meaningful employment.

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About

Objectives

Impact

RFW Institute

National Recovery Friendly Workplace Institute

Our Mission

To engage employers in creating certified Recovery Friendly Workplaces.

Our Vision

Envisioning a future in which employers are equipped with knowledge, tools, resources, procedures, policies, and benefits to ensure employees with Substance Use Disorder and mental health conditions, have access to treatment and recovery services at parity with all other chronic health conditions.

The National Recovery Friendly Workplace Institute (the Institute) is a leading organization that supports employers in fostering recovery-friendly workplace cultures. We work with employers, government agencies, and community leaders to advance the Recovery Friendly Workplace movement to support individuals affected by substance use disorder (SUD).

The Institute is the only body that nationally-certifies employers as Recovery Friendly Workplaces. By equipping employers with tools to support individuals in recovery, we help businesses improve retention, productivity, and overall workplace culture.

Recovery Friendly Workplace

A business or organization that…

  • Is equipped with knowledge, information, tools, and resources about SUD and recovery to help employers effectively prevent and respond to substance use in the workforce

  • Recognizes stigma associated with SUD and recovery and uses education, discussion, and trainings to address and challenge that stigma

  • Has equitable acknowledgment, and accompanying procedures and policies, that treats SUD and recovery as other chronic health conditions are treated

  • Provides support for employees seeking to find, or maintain, recovery, or seeking resources for their loved ones

  • Establishes a culture of comfortability when there is a need for support services, whether for themselves or their loved ones, that eliminates some of the fear with coming forward

  • Is Certified

Workplace Certification

The National Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) Certification is designed to recognize employers committed to supporting employees in recovery from, or otherwise affected by, substance use disorders (SUDs) and fostering a healthy workplace culture.

Offered by the National Recovery Friendly Workplace Institute, this certification sets national standards for employers seeking to create supportive environments through workplace policies, hiring practices, benefits, and education. Organizations that achieve RFW certification demonstrate leadership in reducing stigma, promoting access to recovery resources, and strengthening employee well-being.

Employers pursuing certification undergo a structured application process, meeting criteria in four key areas: Culture, Hiring & Retention, Benefits, and Education & Awareness. Certified workplaces gain recognition as industry leaders, enhancing employee satisfaction, workforce stability, and corporate reputation.