Good for employees
Supportive policies and trained leaders help employees in recovery stay connected to work, benefits, and a healthy path forward.
MS Recovery Friendly Workplace Coalition
Helping Mississippi employers support recovery, reduce workplace risk, and build a stronger, more stable workforce.
A practical framework for employers
The Mississippi Recovery Friendly Workplace Coalition equips employers with a structured approach to support employees in recovery, reduce workplace risk, and strengthen workforce stability.
This is not just an HR initiative. It is a business strategy rooted in workforce performance, safety, retention, and access to talent. The coalition helps employers assess their current environment, train leaders, update policies, and connect employees with recovery-informed resources.
Why It Matters
Substance use disorder affects workplaces through absenteeism, turnover, safety risk, productivity loss, and rising healthcare and workers' compensation costs. Recovery Friendly Workplaces address these challenges proactively before they become costly outcomes.
Good for business
Employers gain a clearer approach to retention, safety, risk mitigation, and workforce reliability.
The RFW Model
The coalition uses a repeatable model built for measurable progress.
1
Assessment
Evaluate current policies, culture, communication practices, and workplace risk areas.
2
Planning
Develop a practical strategy aligned with operations, safety, compliance, and workforce goals.
3
Implementation
Train leaders, update policies, and connect employees with support systems and community resources.
4
Monitoring
Track outcomes, learn from the process, and keep improving as workforce needs change.
What Employers Gain
- Reduced turnover and absenteeism
- Improved workplace safety and compliance
- Stronger employee engagement and morale
- Better access to workforce and community resources
- Enhanced reputation as a responsible, people-centered employer
Mississippi RFW Designation
The Mississippi Recovery Friendly Workplace Designation recognizes employers that establish, maintain, and continually improve policies, practices, and a work environment supportive of current and prospective employees in recovery from, or otherwise affected by, substance use disorder.
- Recognition as a Recovery Friendly Employer in Mississippi
- Inclusion in a statewide RFW employer network
- Access to implementation tools and resources
- Public recognition and promotional support
- Eligibility to pursue national Recovery Friendly Workplace certification
Take the Next Step
Employers can begin with a conversation about current policies, workforce challenges, and whether the Mississippi RFW designation is the right next milestone. The coalition can help identify a starting point that fits your operations and workforce.
Download the full MS Recovery Friendly Workplace Coalition handout
Talk with MSBA about becoming recovery friendly
Share a few details and we will follow up about the coalition, employer resources, and the Mississippi RFW designation process.
Kimberly McRoy, SHRM-SCPKimberly.mcroy@msba.com(601) 550-3434