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Our Mission

Partnering for Progress: CRCC and the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership Board

At the forefront of change, CRCC joins hands with the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership Board to pioneer the statewide Recovery Workforce Network. This collaborative effort encompasses an array of stakeholders, including substance use and mental disorder treatment programs, individuals in recovery, local and statewide workforce development boards, employers, and more. Our mission is to unite educational, workforce, and economic development assets and services within the Illinois workforce system for our recovery community members. We strive to bolster economic expansion and job generation, benefiting individuals in recovery, businesses, and recovering communities across the state.

Our Vision: Empowering Recovery Through Employment

Our Network is committed to establishing and enhancing employment-based recovery support services. Our primary objectives revolve around breaking down barriers hindering individuals in recovery from accessing gainful employment. We aim to amplify workforce activities for the recovery community by identifying and addressing gaps attributed to substance use disorders.  Illinois seeks to become a forefront figure in national workforce development, fostering a unified, business-driven framework prioritizing job seekers and enterprises. This initiative will fuel regional economic growth and facilitate global market engagement.

Driving Impact: Our Key Activities

The Network convenes monthly (virtually or in-person) to pinpoint workforce gaps caused by SUD prevalence. Our agenda involves:

  • Engaging Employers: Developing business services to involve employers in workforce investment activities.

  • Fostering Collaboration: Strengthening communication and collaboration among employers and local/state workforce boards.

  • Strategic Solutions: Crafting effective strategies for individuals facing employment barriers.

  • Community Partnerships: Cultivating alliances to facilitate employment and workforce training.

  • Empowering Employers: Recruiting and empowering businesses to participate in the Illinois workforce.

 

Bridging the Divide: Trainings and Support

We collaborate to identify employers keen on participating in quarterly virtual trainings. These sessions aim to equip them with the tools to support their employees in accessing resources and treatment for SUD. Through these trainings, we strive to foster recovery-friendly policies and cultures and destigmatize addiction in the workplace.

Leveraging Innovation: The Recovery Workforce Network Website

To bolster these efforts, CRCC spearheads the development of the Recovery Workforce Network website. This digital hub is a comprehensive resource center for recovering individuals across Illinois. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Accessible Resources: All workforce development activities and resources are centralized for easy access.

  • Focused Navigation: User-friendly search tools for county and city-specific information.

  • Event Calendar: Listing all grant-provided workforce activities.

  • Seamless Application: Simplified sign-up forms for individuals interested in these activities.

  • Scholarship Opportunity: The grant funds 30 individuals yearly certification as peer support specialists.

This website is a beacon, ensuring that job opportunities, services, and recovery-friendly employers are easily accessible. It's our commitment to fortify the community support network for individuals in recovery, one click at a time. The Recovery Workforce Network is not just a vision but a catalyst for change, uniting resources and opportunities for a brighter tomorrow.

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