A community initiative is being launched to educate business owners about addiction and efforts to hire people who are in recovery.

Healthlink New York is serving as the lead agency for the Southern Tier Regional Addiction Resource Center.

Agency officials hope to encourage employers to support recovery efforts through a program called Businesses HIRE - Helping in Recovery Efforts.

One of the biggest challenges for those recovering from addiction is obtaining employment.

The new initiative will provide employers with resources that can help them recruit and retain a dedicated workforce.

A kick-off meeting for the program is scheduled for May 9 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Owego Treadway Inn.

Those interested in attending the session or in more information about Businesses HIRE may call 607.651.9150.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

More From KISS 104.1