Recovery
INSPIRE funding could help local groups
Among the many challenges to those in recovery from substance addiction is getting back into the workforce. Here in a region hit harder than any other by the epidemic that has gripped us for more than a decade, that challenge combines with our sluggish economy to make the odds seem nearly impossible for those trying to get back on their feet.
Tuesday, the Appalachian Regional Commission opened up a request for proposals for its Investments Supporting Partnerships in Recovery Ecosystems initiative. The ARC expects to distribute up to $13 million to projects that create or expand services that help facility workforce entry and re-entry.
“Substance use disorder has become an epidemic in our Appalachian communities that has sweeping impacts across our region,” said ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. “At ARC, we understand that while substance use disorder is a health issue, it is a workforce and community development issue as well, which requires a continuum of support services from across the community. Our INSPIRE initiative facilitates partnerships across the recovery ecosystem that not only provides help to those in recovery, but also hope and purpose as it sets them on sustainable career paths that will strengthen our entire Appalachian workforce.”
Surely there are organizations in our communities with good ideas for helping individuals in recovery obtain and maintain stable employment. Maybe all they need is a little financial push.
They must not miss this chance to take advantage of federal funding. ($13 million across Appalachia’s 289 counties does not stretch as far as one might hope).
But if we are going to make progress in fighting this monster — and doing what we can for those who have made the choice to fight it on their own behalf -one of the tools they will need is support in getting and maintaining the kind of job that will keep them on the road to a better life. If this funding can help us do that, local organizations must not miss the opportunity.