On April 15^th, 2025, Cornerstone VNA was designated as a Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW). According to the RFW website, “Led by Governor Chris Sununu, New Hampshire’s ‘Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative’ promotes individual wellness for Granite Staters by empowering workplaces to provide support for people recovering from substance use disorder. The Recovery Friendly Workplace initiative gives business owners the resources and support they need to foster a supportive environment that encourages the success of their employees in recovery.”
 
Recovery Friendly Workplaces (RFWs) support their communities by recognizing recovery from substance use disorder as a strength and by being willing to work intentionally with people in recovery.  RFWs encourage a healthy and safe environment where employers, employees, and communities can collaborate to create positive change and eliminate barriers for those impacted by addiction.
 
As a designated RFW, Cornerstone VNA is committed to fostering a safe and recovery friendly environment, engaging employees in addiction and behavioral health education and prevention, retaining healthy and productive employees, and promoting prevention and recovery in local communities. As a participant in this important initiative, Cornerstone VNA will receive ongoing support, training and education from Regional Public Health Networks, Recovery Support Organizations, and Recovery Friendly Advisors.
 
Cornerstone VNA President/CEO, Jennifer Ufkin, RN, MSN, shares, “Being recognized as a Recovery Friendly Workplace affirms our commitment to cultivating a culture of compassion, support, and second chances. This designation reflects our belief that recovery strengthens not only individuals, but entire communities—and we are proud to support those on their journey to wellness.”
 
According to Katie Michaud, MS, OTR/L, Community Care Director, “I am very proud to participate in the State of New Hampshire’s Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative, which adds to the depth of the Mental Health Team at Cornerstone VNA. We are also designated as the “Place” by the Dover Mental Health Alliance, which recognizes that we are a safe and judgment-free space for employees, colleagues, and patients.”
 
Cornerstone VNA currently serves Rockingham, Strafford, Belknap and Carroll Counties in New Hampshire and York County in Maine. The team at Cornerstone VNA provides award-winning care and support through five distinct programs: Home Care, Hospice Care, Palliative Care, Life Care-Private Duty, and Community Care. For 112 years, Cornerstone VNA has been committed to bringing services to people of all ages so that families can stay together at home, even when facing the challenges of aging, surgical recovery, chronic or life-threatening illnesses or end-of-life care. To learn more about Cornerstone VNA, visit www.cornerstonevna.org or call 603-332-1133.