Nonantum Resort – Building a Recovery-Friendly Culture

Nonantum Resort received its Recovery-Friendly Workplace (RFW) certification from New Hampshire, in April 2023, starting with a re-entry program to help people return to work after incarceration. Many of these individuals were in recovery from addiction. This program sparked a big change at the resort, creating a more open and supportive workplace for everyone dealing with personal challenges.

A key part of Nonantum’s success is a focus on flexibility and support. They provide a place where employees feel safe sharing their struggles without worrying about losing their jobs. Whether someone needs time off to attend recovery meetings or treatment, Nonantum makes sure their job is secure, allowing them to focus on their recovery while continuing to contribute to the workplace.

This open culture has led to greater employee engagement. Staff members, whether in recovery or not, help each other and offer support with personal and work problems. This supportive environment has helped build stronger relationships, improve teamwork, and made employees feel like they’re part of something bigger than just their job.

Nonantum also celebrates recovery milestones; a unique distinction.

Employees openly share and celebrate events like sobriety anniversaries. This not only strengthens bonds but also creates a sense of pride and community within the team.

Since becoming certified, three big changes have happened at Nonantum:

1. Higher employee engagement

Employees feel more connected to the company and to each other, and more involved in their work.

2. Stronger team bonds

The focus on helping one another has brought employees closer, building a strong, supportive community.

3. Less stigma about recovery

Workers are now more comfortable talking about recovery and celebrating milestones like sobriety anniversaries which has helped create a more inclusive and understanding workplace.

What Employers Can Do

Nonantum’s experience offers actions that employers can take to become more recovery friendly:

Create a culture of openness

Encourage open communication, an environment where employees feel safe to share personal challenges without fear of losing their job.

Be flexible

Allow employees in recovery to take time off for meetings or treatment without penalizing them. This support can make a big difference.

Celebrate success

Recognize and celebrate recovery milestones, such as sobriety anniversaries, to build a stronger sense of community and support within the workplace.

By adopting these practices, businesses can help build a more inclusive, supportive work environment that benefits both employees and the whole organization.