United Labor Agency Executive Director Dave Megenhardt appeared on the AWF Union Podcast and spoke about the Fresh Start Program, which can assist workers who are addicted to opioids and help them get back on their feet.
Megenhardt explained how some workers who are injured on the job will become addicted to painkillers and need assistance finding work once they become sober. He detailed how the Fresh Start Program is a workforce development program designed to give people a second chance to go to work. It provides different services such as job training and counseling.
He also talked about the benefits of job fairs, and how they are a tool used to find the best fit for workers who are struggling with employment. Job fairs, he noted, also give employers who may have mixed feelings about hiring someone who is recovering from addiction an opportunity to see the positive effects of the program.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more about the Fresh Start Program.