The Local 2 leadership team is continuing to take a proactive approach when it comes to the mental health of our members. Business Manager, Jim Cassidy, is always looking for new resources for our union brothers and sisters to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, and any other mental struggles people may be experiencing. The latest discovery in the leadership team’s search for helpful mental health assistance programs is the new Heat & Frost Recovery Group.
Created by Insulator George Alexander from Local 14 in Philadelphia, the Heat & Frost Recovery Group is a Zoom-based support group for union insulators and their families to address struggles with addiction.
“After just one conversation with George, I knew we had to get behind this program. He (George) had success running similar programs in the past and felt that this was a way to provide support throughout all territories covered under the international. When I brought this information to Jim, he was on board right away,” said Business Agent, John Stewart.
This new program aims to foster a culture of acceptance and support for all members. Alexander’s idea for the group came when he realized that nobody could empathize with union insulator struggles better than fellow trades workers. Both Jim and John have personally faced challenges with addiction and realize the importance of this free resource.
The group allows participants to engage in conversations, share personal stories, or simply listen, all while maintaining complete anonymity. The Heat & Frost Recovery Group perfectly aligns with Local 2 leadership’s commitment to mental health awareness.
“When John told me about George’s group, I immediately recognized it as a resource that many of our members could truly benefit from,” said Cassidy.
While the program is not associated with AA, NA, Rescue Recovery, or any other 12-step program, it is the perfect resource to coincide with Local 2’s mental health awareness efforts. “This is a weekly, live meeting available nationwide to union insulators and their families who may be struggling with addictions of any kind,” Alexander said.
Jim and John hope to continue helping Alexander expand his vision so that Local 2 members and insulators across the country can build connections and find common ground in addressing the unique challenges of their profession while also exploring opportunities for recovery and personal growth.
The Heat & Frost Recovery Group meets every Thursday at 8pm eastern standard time. You may join by using meeting ID: 232 344 0706.
For questions about the group, please call John Stewart at: 412-974-7645