Family Forward NC

For World Doula Week, we’re excited to feature another Family Forward NC? Certified Employer that supports and empowers families from birth and beyond. At Aeroflow Health, they’re breaking down barriers for breastfeeding mothers by providing essential lactation support. This organization shows that investing in family-friendly policies—like dedicated lactation rooms—not only benefits moms but also strengthens workplace retention and productivity. Learn more about how your business can create a supportive, family-friendly environment: https://buff.ly/jH9iPRs #WorldDoulaWeek #FamilyForwardNC #SupportWorkingFamilies

Hot off the Presses! The NEW Guide to Family Forward Workplaces from Family Forward NC! Since its first release in 2019, our Guide has helped employers across North Carolina build more family-friendly, productive workplaces. Now, it’s better than ever — with updated research, new case studies, and an entirely new section to help employers become champions for public policy. Inside the new Guide, you’ll find: ?? Evidence-based benefits that support working families and employers ?? Case studies from NC employers ?? Fresh policy updates on paid leave, child care, accommodations & more ?? Action steps to get started — whether you're an HR pro, CEO, or small business owner Let’s reimagine what it means to support working families — and build stronger communities in the process. Download the Guide: https://buff.ly/HUqhocE Tell us how you’ve used the Guide: [email protected] #NCEmployers #ChildCare #PaidLeave #FutureOfWork #SupportWorkingFamilies

A recent national poll found that 91% of voters believe child care affordability is a problem or crisis, impacting families, workplace productivity, and the economy. At Family Forward NC, we know these challenges directly affect recruitment, retention, and productivity for businesses—and voters agree. Now is the time to support family-friendly workplace policies that help families thrive and businesses succeed. Read the First Five Years Fund poll findings here: https://lnkd.in/eahwbS_T #FamilyForwardNC #FamilyFriendlyWorkplaces #ChildCareMatters

?? Congratulations to the Center for Creative Leadership for becoming a Family Forward NC Certified Employer! ?? CCL is making a difference by fostering a workplace that values and supports working families. By prioritizing policies that promote work-life balance and employee well-being, they’re creating a culture where both businesses and families can thrive! Thank you for leading by example and showing that when businesses invest in their people, everyone benefits! ??

Governor Joshua Stein announced one of the most ambitious budgets we’ve seen in years—one that places North Carolina’s children, working families, and public schools at the center of our state’s future economic success. This proposed budget makes it clear: when families are supported, children thrive, communities grow stronger, and North Carolina’s economy benefits. Highlights from the proposal include: ? Greater access to affordable, high-quality childcare ? More money in working families’ pockets ? Strong investments in public education What’s your hope for a future where North Carolina’s families and communities are fully supported? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Read Governor Stein’s full budget to learn more: https://buff.ly/Drc45xi

During World Doula Week (March 22-29), we celebrate the doulas who provide compassionate care during life’s most transformative moments. They empower families, improve birth outcomes, and support healthier babies and mothers. Yet in North Carolina, doula care isn’t covered by Medicaid, limiting access for many families. Research shows doulas lower the risk of cesarean delivery, preterm birth, and low birth weight—while also shortening labor and increasing breastfeeding rates. At FFNC, we support family-friendly policies recognizing doulas’ vital role in building thriving communities. #WorldDoulaWeek #FamilyFriendlyPolicy

We’re committed to workplace policies that support young children and their families, grounded in research on brain development and lifelong success. Access to stable, high-quality early care and education ensures that children are prepared for school and beyond. When we invest in early childhood, we’re not only supporting families but also preparing the future workforce for success. How is your organization contributing to a future-ready workforce? Share your thoughts with us! #FamilyForwardNC #EarlyChildhood

What’s the secret behind Eastcut Sandwich Bar’s success? It’s not just their delicious sandwiches. Since opening in 2018, Eastcut’s owners, Brad Bankos and Steve Wuench, have been serving more than great food—building a family-friendly workplace. In February 2025, they became a proud Family Forward NC? Certified Employer. The results speak for themselves: ? Lower turnover ? Happier, more loyal employees ? A thriving business From flexible scheduling to paid parental leave—even for part-time staff—Eastcut shows that family-first policies aren’t just the right thing to do. They’re good for business. Get inspired by Eastcut’s story: https://lnkd.in/e5YP8Wic #FamilyForwardNC #FamilyFriendlyWorkplaces

Congratulations to our Executive Director Theresa Roedersheimer for being appointed to Governor Josh Stein’s Task Force for Child Care and Early Education!

Today, we’re highlighting Family Forward NC? Employer Berico. The Greensboro-based company celebrates its centennial year in business and is reinforcing its commitment to family-friendly workplace policies through its recent FFNC Employer Certification. “As a parent myself, when I was looking for a new position, it was very important that whatever company I went with was family-friendly. Showing that Berico is family-friendly is going to be nothing but positive,” said Whitney Tobatto, Berico’s human resources manager. Learn more about Berico’s Family Forward story and how your business can be Family Forward NC Certified: https://buff.ly/BhgsBPv #FamilyForwardNC #ThrivingWorkplaces