Rathbun Insurance was proud to be represented at the Substance Use Impact Conference for Employers and Providers, where President Laura Stoken had the honor of speaking on a panel about what it means to be a Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW).
Hosted by Michigan Public Health Institute and partners, this conference brought together employers, providers, and community leaders to have important conversations around substance use, recovery, and the role workplaces play in supporting individuals and families.
During the panel, Laura joined fellow leaders in sharing Rathbun Insurance’s approach to becoming and operating as a Recovery Friendly Workplace. The conversation focused on what it means to be an RFW, how organizations can take steps to become one, and the real impact this work can have on employees and workplace culture.
At Rathbun Insurance, being a Recovery Friendly Workplace means recognizing that substance use impacts every workplace and choosing to respond with intention, education, and compassion. Rather than treating it as a one-time initiative, our team has integrated RFW principles into our everyday culture. Through consistent communication, ongoing education, and a commitment to reducing stigma, we are working to create an environment where employees feel safe seeking help and supported in their journey.
One of the key themes Laura shared was the importance of normalizing the conversation around Substance Use Disorder in the workplace. The panel explored the benefits of becoming a Recovery Friendly Workplace. For Rathbun Insurance, this has led to a stronger, more empathetic culture, increased confidence among leaders when navigating sensitive situations, and a deeper alignment with our core value: Being There Matters Most. When employees feel supported, it impacts not only their wellbeing but also how they show up for clients and each other.
Like any meaningful initiative, there are challenges. Conversations around substance use can feel uncomfortable at first, and leaders may not always feel equipped to respond. Rathbun Insurance has addressed this by focusing on education and providing tools and language that help make these conversations more approachable. Over time, what once felt difficult has become a natural part of how our team communicates and supports one another.
We are grateful to Michigan Public Health Institute for hosting such an important conversation and for the opportunity to share our experience alongside other organizations committed to making a difference.
At Rathbun Insurance, we believe that supporting our team means supporting our community. Being a Recovery Friendly Workplace is one way we continue to live out our promise that Being There Matters Most.
Become a Recovery Friendly Workplace today!
