July 2, 2026 

A strong workforce depends on access to opportunity. For individuals in recovery from substance use disorder, that access can be especially difficult to secure. Using $500,000 in ARC INSPIRE funds, Kentucky River Community Care’s Bridges to Work project helped to close gaps between recovery and long-term employment through coordinated workforce and support services tailored to young adults rebuilding their lives. 

Investing in Recovery-Informed Workforce Solutions 

Operated by Kentucky River Community Care’s Hickory Hill Recovery Center, Bridges to Work, located in Hazard, focused on individuals ages 18–34 in two economically distressed counties, where workforce participation barriers intersect with high rates of substance use disorder. While recovery is a critical first step, many individuals face additional challenges entering the workforce, including limited job readiness, lack of work experience and the need for ongoing counseling and support. 

ARC’s INSPIRE investment helped this project combine job training and internship placement with counseling and wraparound support services, which in turn helped participants build stability while developing the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the workplace. 

 “The Bridges to Work grant provided valuable internships for many individuals whose work histories were poor, and in some cases nonexistent,” said Kentucky River Community Care Director Judy Cattoi. “Without these internships, many individuals leaving long-term rehab would not have any, or limited, work experience, making it difficult to find employment. Without employment, and the resulting fiscal stability, a return to old lifestyles is a strong possibility. Individuals, families and communities know the emotional, physical and social costs of addiction. Employment can help offset these.” 

Strengthening Workforce Participation and Local Businesses

The program exceeded its projected outcomes, demonstrating strong demand and impact. Bridges to Work improved outcomes for 108 workers and served 223 workers overall, far surpassing original projections. In addition, the program has strengthened local employer partnerships, improving outcomes for 37 businesses and serving 49 businesses across the Bridges to Work service area. 

“Internships offered from the INSPIRE grant also benefitted employers. They provided a probationary period for employers to evaluate the work performance of the individuals and determine whether they wanted to offer full-time employment,” said Cattoi. “In rural Appalachia, finding good employees can be difficult and internships helped to fill vacancies and provide economic stability for the employer. Stability for both the individual and the employer help strengthen communities.”   

By connecting individuals in recovery with meaningful employment and supporting employers in building necessary workforce pipelines, ARC’s investment is helping communities address substance use disorder while strengthening local economies. The Bridges to Work program illustrates how recovery-informed workforce strategies can deliver measurable economic and community impact in Appalachia.