The Appalachian Ohio Manufacturers’ Coalition proudly introduces Made in Appalachia, an initiative that empowers individuals completing behavioral health recovery programs to build strong foundations for rewarding, quality careers and a bright, fulfilling future.

The Made in Appalachia initiative is a personalized support project. It is tailored to unique individual circumstances to help ensure a smoother transition to meaningful employment and high income careers.

Participants enter through various pathways, including self-referrals or connections from community organizations, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity. The opportunity is offered at no cost to participants.

  • Every participant completes a Made in Appalachia Screening Form as a vital first step, enabling them to access tailored resources and support for their employment journey. This form provides initial information on career interests, work readiness, and potential barriers.

  • The pathway that best fits their needs and goals is determined. The participant is then enrolled in the appropriate track for success (e.g., credential training, job readiness, or direct employment support).

  • This project offers a comprehensive approach to workforce development, integrating various support to empower individuals at every stage of their journey. These include items such as transportation, child care, or documentation needs.

  • The initiative emphasizes retention and follow-up support, allowing participants to remain connected and receive guidance as they adapt to their new work environments and advance in their careers.

  • With ongoing professional and peer support, participants will confidently navigate the stages of career training and job placement for lasting success.

Universal Screening Process

No matter which referral source or partner agency submits a participant to the Made in Appalachia program, every individual will complete a Screening Form. This ensures that each participant’s unique needs, goals, and barriers are understood, allowing the AOMC Workforce Development Manager to match them with the most appropriate pathway and level of support.

  • Referrals from Recovery or Behavioral Health Providers

  • Referrals from Correctional or Reentry Programs

  • Self-Referrals

  • Community Referrals

The project can be accessed through multiple pathways.

Referral Form

Improving Community

Supporting individuals as they transition from behavioral health recovery programs into meaningful employment creates lasting value—reducing relapse rates, fostering personal stability, expanding the talent pool for employers, and strengthening communities through increased economic activity.

Learn More

For more information about the Made in Appalachia program, contact Hunter Warsinsky, AOMC Workforce Development Manager at hunter@aomanufacturers.org.

community partnerships

This program follows all federal confidentiality regulations under 42 CFR Part 2, ensuring that any information shared by participants receiving substance use recovery services remains private and protected.