The Richland County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board is working on two new projects this year.

Executive Director Joe Trolian gave an update to the board at their regular meeting Tuesday night about the Work Readiness Program and the Medication Assisted Treatment Program.

Trolian said the work readiness program will work with individuals who've been unable to pass drug screenings for employment.
 

"We're working in conjunction with the Richland County Development Group as one their new sectors to develop a program that can address some of those issues. In addition we'll hopefully start our Medication Assisted Treatment pilot program for opiate addicts," Trolian said.

"We'll be starting with a select group referred from court that are involved with drug court then we'll open it up to the community," Trolian said.

Trolian said the Work Readiness Program will focus on drug and alcohol issues, stress management, financial management and job interviewing skills. 

Trolian said the board is working with Oscar McKinght from Ashland University on a feasibility study for the Work Readiness Program.
 

He said the study will ensure the program is targeting the right individuals to address the issue.