Ben's Friends Brings Mental Health, Recovery Support Into DC Kitchens

Ben's Friends, a national peer support network for food and beverage professionals in recovery, holds meetings built around an industry schedule that keeps many workers behind the bar or line during the hours when most support groups meet.

• Their Mission: To help those struggling with addiction find freedom and community. The group brings together sober chefs, line cooks, servers, bartenders, hosts, and managers committed to helping one another find the support they need.
• How to Connect: Ben's Friends holds national meetings every day on Zoom at 1 pm, with additional meeting times listed at bensfriendshope.com/meetings. The DC/NOVA chapter also meets Mondays at 10 am, virtually and in person at Oak Steakhouse in Alexandria.
• Bring Ben's Friends to Your Team: Learn more online or contact DC/NOVA Co-Leaders Todd Hunt (Oak Steakhouse Alexandria) or Matt Walsh (Great American Restaurants).