Drug Free Manatee is the recipient of a State Farm Grant.  The grant, in the amount of $1500 will be presented to Drug Free Manatee by Senator Boyd and a group of State Farm agents.  Drug Free Manatee will use the funding to initiate a program aimed at reducing substance use in the workplace. The program is in the pilot phases and is titled “Drug Resistant Workplace Program”. The program will target businesses with a high percentage of employees between the ages of 18-35 years old, as this is a high-risk group for substance abuse. The goal is to train business owners in practices that are responsive to mental health and wellness, which includes substance use and misuse.  Employers of the chosen participating businesses will be supplied Narcan and drug testing kits. Participating businesses will also be designated as a “drug-resistant and safe workplace” for those in recovery who are seeking employment.  The philosophy guiding this program is that employees will be willing to commit to not coming to work impaired, and employers will commit to providing a wellness-oriented environment.

Drug Free Manatee’s hope is this program will also bring community awareness of how businesses can support healthy lifestyles and recovery for our citizens, by reducing substance use at the workplace and educate the community on the use of Narcan to prevent death. By educating  workplaces and creating a mentally healthy work environment, the nonprofit hopes the city can increase job retention and job satisfaction.