YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The Mahoning Valley Manufacturers Coalition has been awarded $188,000 from the OneOhio Recovery Foundation to help local manufacturers create more recovery-friendly workplaces and better support employees impacted by substance use disorder.
“Substance use disorder and recovery are issues our members are encountering, and they’re looking for guidance on how to respond,” said Alex Hertzer, MVMC executive director. “We’ve taken a similar approach with topics like fair chance hiring and mental health – bringing employers together, providing education and helping them identify practical strategies that make sense for them.”
In early 2027, MVMC plans to launch a cohort of manufacturers for educational sessions on substance use disorder, stigma and practical approaches that can improve retention and expand employment opportunities.
“Helping employers better understand recovery can strengthen their workforce while giving people a fair opportunity to succeed,” Hertzer said.
The grant is part of a $45.7 million regional grant funding opportunity awarded by the OneOhio Recovery Foundation as part of its mission to strengthen addiction prevention, treatment, recovery and community resilience across Ohio. This is the second round of regional grants distributed by the foundation.
A complete list of recipients in the second round of funding can be found on the foundation’s website.