What's Happening?
Apricity Contract Packaging, a unique organization in Wisconsin, is dedicated to employing individuals recovering from addiction. The company operates in northeast Wisconsin and Milwaukee, employing about 100 people annually. It offers a supportive work
environment where employees can focus on recovery while building stable employment records. The organization is one of the few in the nation that strictly employs people in recovery, providing them with a judgment-free workplace. Employees at Apricity are encouraged to build a foundation of recovery and safer behaviors, with the option to transition to other jobs when ready. The company also offers residential treatment facilities, peer support, and recovery coaching programs.
Why It's Important?
The initiative by Apricity Contract Packaging addresses a significant gap in the employment market for individuals recovering from addiction. By providing a supportive and understanding work environment, the organization helps reduce the stigma associated with addiction recovery. This approach not only aids in the personal recovery of individuals but also contributes to their economic stability and self-worth. The model could serve as a blueprint for other companies looking to create more inclusive and recovery-friendly workplaces. It highlights the potential for businesses to play a crucial role in societal recovery efforts, offering second chances and reducing barriers to employment for a marginalized group.
What's Next?
Apricity Contract Packaging aims to continue its mission of supporting individuals in recovery by expanding its services and potentially increasing its workforce. The organization plans to maintain its focus on providing a safe and understanding environment for its employees, while also encouraging them to pursue further career opportunities. As awareness of the benefits of recovery-friendly workplaces grows, more companies may adopt similar models, potentially leading to broader societal changes in how addiction recovery is perceived and supported.
Beyond the Headlines
The work of Apricity Contract Packaging underscores the broader societal challenge of integrating individuals in recovery into the workforce. It raises important questions about the role of employers in supporting mental health and recovery, and the potential for businesses to contribute to social change. The organization's success could inspire policy changes that encourage more companies to hire individuals in recovery, potentially leading to a reduction in unemployment rates among this group and a decrease in the stigma surrounding addiction.
