Keast works in partnership with shop manager John Jordan, who has been in recovery for eight years, four of those as a drug counselor.

"We didn't set out to invent this. We were surprised," Keast said. "It creates atmosphere. It's magic. We notice when a man is becoming supportive of a co-worker, or when he suggests something helpful, or when his attitude changes. We're as glad to see these changes as we are to hear from a satisfied customer. We're making a difference in people's lives, and they are helping us satisfy our customers."

Keast said the hiring strategy has dramatically cut employee turnover and creates a community that "makes the company a pleasant place for employees and customers." And everyone feels good about finding an answer to a serious problem.

For more information, please contact Andria Valentine with Houston Demand Treatment at 281-200-9324.

All new hires receive Straight Talk about Rules and Procedures, a 15-page booklet. In it, workers are encouraged "to discuss any personal problems or questions about the company with your supervisor." It points out that company managers "strongly support people in recovery from drug or alcohol abuse, and if an employee realizes he has a problem, we have close connections with excellent resources that can help a person committed to making a change."

Keast plans to set up a Web site where people in recovery can post their resumes, and companies can find employees and learn how Keast's hiring practices have worked for his company. He is writing up the information, has a domain name reserved, and is looking for a volunteer Web site designer to help put it together.

For more information please contact Andria Valentine with Houston Demand Treatment at 281-200-9324.