Honoring the Life of Richard Buckman March 27th
Several organizations in our community are coming together to honor the life and legacy of Richard “Rich” Buckman, a respected recovery advocate whose work touched many lives across Long Island and New York.
Rich dedicated his life to recovery advocacy, supporting individuals navigating addiction and helping to build community spaces centered on hope and connection.
An event will be held to celebrate his life and continue the spirit of community he helped create.
Friday, March 27 at 5:30 pm
THRIVE Suffolk
1324 Motor Parkway
Islandia, NY
The evening will include reflections, the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, and opportunities for the recovery community to gather together.
Meaningful Support is Paramount
As we move into March, we are reminded that the work of supporting individuals, families, and workplaces is deeply interconnected with the strength of our communities. At LECSA, our partnerships with labor, HR professionals, treatment providers, and community organizations allow us to meet people where they are and connect them with meaningful support.
March is Social Work Month
March is Social Work Month, a global celebration of the profession and the impact social workers have across communities. They help individuals navigate crisis, advocate for dignity and access to care, and create pathways toward stability and healing.
“Being a social worker means looking beyond the immediate problem and understanding the whole picture: family, environment, and the systems that shape someone’s life. As a social worker in the EAP field, I believe in working alongside individuals and their families with honesty and accountability, because real change happens when we’re willing to look at things as they truly are. My role isn’t to give people the answers, but to collaborate with them so they can uncover their own strength, insight, and path forward.”
– Millie Andino, LMSW, CASAC, SAP
At LECSA, the values of social work shape much of how we approach employee assistance and community support. The principles of service, integrity, and the importance of human relationships guide our work with employees, union members, organizations, and families seeking support.
To our colleagues across the helping professions who continue to do this work with compassion and dedication, we see you and appreciate you.
Other Important March Awareness Observances
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
March is also Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a reminder that inclusion and access remain essential priorities for communities and workplaces alike.
Many employees are caregivers for loved ones with developmental disabilities. Flexible workplace policies, supportive leadership, and access to community resources help families manage responsibilities while maintaining stability at work.
Organizations that acknowledge these realities create healthier environments where employees can bring their full selves to work.
National Nutrition Month
National Nutrition Month highlights the connection between nutrition, physical health, and mental well-being.
Research continues to show that nutrition plays a role in mood regulation, stress management, and cognitive functioning. Individual choices, access to healthy food, economic stability, and supportive environments all contribute to overall wellbeing.
For union leaders, HR professionals and workplace leaders, these connections reinforce the importance of approaching member wellness holistically.
Research supporting EAP’s
The Continued Expansion of Workplace Mental Health Programs
Organizations across the country are increasing their investment in workplace mental health initiatives. Employee Assistance Programs, manager mental health training, and psychological safety initiatives are becoming central parts of workforce strategy.
According to the American Psychological Association, employees are significantly more likely to stay with organizations that actively support mental health and wellbeing. Leaders who prioritize these supports are seeing measurable improvements in retention and workplace culture.
This reinforces an important truth. Supporting employee wellbeing is not simply a benefit. It is a strategic investment in the long-term health of organization, business, and the workforce.
Growing Our Team
One of the things we are most proud of at LECSA is the strength of the team behind the work. We are excited to share that LECSA is currently expanding our team.
Click here for a full job description
Resources to Share With Employees
Many of our HR partners share this section directly with their staff as a reminder that support is always available.
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988
SAMHSA National Helpline
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Mental health education and support groups
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Treatment Locator
Employees covered under a LECSA Employee Assistance Program can also contact us directly for confidential support, referrals, and resources.
A Final Note
The work of supporting individuals, workplaces, and communities rarely happens in isolation. It happens through relationships, collaboration, and the shared belief that access to support matters. Whether you are an HR professional, a treatment provider, a labor partner, or a community advocate, we are grateful to work alongside you.
Thank you for the work you do and for the trust you place in LECSA.
