Funding available for recovery-to-work programs in Appalachia
The Appalachian Regional Commission, in partnership with the Ohio Governor’s Office of Appalachia, is now accepting applications for the Investments Supporting Partnerships in Recovery Ecosystems (INSPIRE) Initiative.
The INSPIRE program addresses the Appalachian region’s substance use disorder crisis through projects that create opportunities for Ohioans in recovery to find and keep sustainable employment.
“By providing support and opportunities for those in recovery, we are working to break the cycle of addiction and foster thriving, resilient communities,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Recovery-to-work projects do not just improve individual outcomes, but also economic development across the region.”
“For those in recovery looking to make a better life for themselves and their families, it can be nearly impossible to go it alone,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development, which houses the Governor’s Office of Appalachia. “Support networks are essential to holistic recovery, and recovery-to-work efforts are at the heart of a sustainable recovery system.”
Successful projects will support post-treatment to employment pathways, including recovery-focused job training, coordinating recovery services and investments in healthcare networks and partnerships that support recovery.
“Substance use disorder is an epidemic in our Appalachian communities that stretches beyond county and state borders,” said ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. “Our INSPIRE Initiative facilitates partnerships across the recovery ecosystem that not only help provide hope to those in recovery from substance use disorder but also help them obtain careers that will strengthen workforces across our communities.”
ARC will host a virtual pre-application workshop on Feb. 8 to help prospective applicants learn more about the program and applications. Letters of Intent are due Feb. 16. Final applications are due March 8.
For more information and to apply, visit ARC.Gov/INSPIRE. Ohio applicants are encouraged to work with their Local Development Districts to prepare their applications.
The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio’s people, places and businesses. Learn more at development.ohio.gov.