Mountain Maryland Forward (MMF) supports people in recovery from substance use challenges in Maryland’s two Appalachian counties – Allegany and Garrett. This project provides an internship program that trains people participating in local treatment and recovery programs and links them to employment opportunities in local businesses. Beyond initial training and placement, MMF gives ongoing assistance through individual mentoring and evaluation activities.
MMF builds upon ongoing relationships and lessons learned from past regional projects. We focus on enhancing partnerships and collaborations with a range of local institutions to support the unique needs of individuals with a history of substance use disorder (SUD) who are interested in joining the local workforce.
MMF integrates customized services and training to bridge critical housing and employment needs and supports successful recovery outcomes and job experiences. Internship participants have access to a combination of online and in-person training, employment services, career planning, community resources, and peer recovery support, with the objective of giving the interns hands-on work experience.
MMF is a key resource for those in Western Maryland who are seeking independence, stability, and the ability to provide for their families as the next step in their recovery journey.
Mountain Maryland Forward (MMF) is a project of the University of Maryland’s Center for Substance Use, Addiction & Health Research (CESAR), funded by a three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) initiative and the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). The total cost of the Mountain Maryland Forward program is $985,419 over three years. This amount–$985,419 (100%)–is funded through a U.S. Department of Labor–Employment and Training Administration grant (#MI-38996-22-60-A-24). The program is part of WORC 4 – ARC. The information and opinions expressed in this website are the views of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of DOL, ARC, or any agency of the Federal Government.