National Recovery Friendly Workplace Certification

The National Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) Certification, offered by the RFW Institute, is the first national certification recognizing employers who create workplaces that actively support employees affected by substance use disorders. Announced by the White House in 2023, the certification sets a standard for what it means to be a truly supportive employer across four areas: Culture, Hiring & Retention, Benefits, and Education & Awareness.

Designed for multistate employers and those in states without an established RFW program, this certification equips HR leaders and executives with a structured framework to close the gap in how workplaces respond to SUDs. Research shows that meaningful employment is one of the most powerful protective factors in sustaining long-term recovery — and this certification helps employers play that role intentionally.

The process begins with an orientation session covering RFW basics and the application, followed by a comprehensive certification review against national standards. Certified employers receive an official RFW certification badge and gain recognition as leaders in workforce health.

Beyond the badge, certification translates into stronger employee retention, higher workforce stability, improved morale, and a more resilient organization. In a labor market where workers choose employers based on values, becoming a certified Recovery Friendly Workplace is both the right thing to do and a strategic advantage.