One of the important issues currently facing our community and the nation is substance use disorder in the workplace and how employers can help employees navigate this crisis.

Pictured left to right are Leanne Engle, Upper Perkiomen Valley Chamber of Commerce; Jay Kauffman, Upper Perk Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab; David Stone, Professional Pharmacy; Bryan Fioriglio, Family Caregivers Network, Inc.; Vicki Kriczky, Frederick Living; Amy Maurizio, St. Luke's Penn Foundation and Christie Cozzie-Nester, Project Live Upper Perk.

            The Chamber held their February Luncheon at Spinnerstown Hotel, Inc. on Thursday, February 16 and presented attendees with a panel of guest speakers to talk about this topic and answer any questions.

            The panel of featured speakers included: Amy Maurizio from St. Luke's Penn Foundation, David Stone from Professional Pharmacy and Christie Cozzie-Nester from Project Live Upper Perk. 

            The conversation was informative and conveyed ways employers can identify issues as well as provide avenues of help for employees. Discussions also centered on how pharmacies are helping in this crisis by switching the ways scripts are written as well as identifying red flags.

            Christie Cozzie-Nester shared her own personal account on how she had overcome her addiction showing hope and recovery is possible for all.  For more information on how to get involved in our community and resources for those in need, please visit www.projectliveupperperk.org

            The February Luncheon was sponsored by Family Caregivers Network, Inc., Frederick Living, Harleysville Bank, and Upper Perk Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab.