“Where Families and Businesses Thrive”

Businesses can apply to become a Certified Family-Friendly Workplace by demonstrating that they meet required qualifying criteria.

Those who qualify will receive:

• A Certificate of Recognition
• A digital badge/Seal to place on their website & marketing materials
• A window cling to display at their business
• Public recognition through HAECP/HACC/PCDC (alphabetical order)
• Inclusion in a community-wide list of certified employers

Larger Businesses 

Cost: $50 (15 employees or more) must meet requirements of 1-3 and 3 of the following 7:

1. Paid Family Leave
2. Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) Access to counseling, financial planning, or family support resources.
3. Predictable Scheduling Schedules provided in advance to support family coordination.
4. Flexible Work Scheduling Options such as adjusted hours, compressed weeks, remote days, or flexible start/stop times. Maternity, paternity, adoption, and/or caregiver leave beyond federal minimums.
5. Support for Working Parents Policies that accommodate pregnancy, parenting, or lactation needs (e.g., private nursing rooms).
6. Health & Wellness Benefits Affordable health insurance, mental health coverage, or wellness incentives.
7. Childcare Assistance
   1. Childcare stipends,
   2. Sponsorship of HAECP (Holdrege Area Early Childhood Partnership) to assist in connecting employees to childcare
8. Career Development Opportunities New skill training, tuition reimbursement, or clear advancement pathways.
9. Community Engagement & Volunteer Support Policies allowing volunteer time in schools, youth programs, or community events.
10. Inclusive Culture & Anti-Discrimination Policies Family-inclusive practices that respect all family structures.

Small Businesses 

Cost: $25 (15 employees or less) must meet 1-3 as well as 1 of the following 4:

1. Any level of scheduling flexibility (e.g., occasional shift adjustments, case-by-case flexibility).
2. Any paid time off that can be used for family or caregiving (doesn’t have to be a formal policy).
3. Verbal OR informal accommodations for parenting or lactation needs (a quiet space designated as needed).
4. Refer employees to HAECP for childcare resources.
5. Career Development Opportunities New skill training, tuition reimbursement, or clear advancement pathways.
6. Schedules provided at least 1 week in advance.
7. Employers participate in or support at least one community event per year.

1. Simple Online Application Businesses check off which criteria they meet and provide supporting info.
2. Businesses must submit 2 employee references.
3. Review Committee A small team from the HAECP/Holdrege Chamber/PCDC evaluates applications.
4. Annual Recognition Event Announce certified workplaces at a chamber community event?
5. Renewal Every 4 Years but businesses can be asked to show proof of being family friendly at any time. Ensures businesses remain aligned with best practices.

• Increased workforce participation
• Stronger business reputation locally & regionally
• Improved employee morale, productivity, and retention
• Support for families keeps community roots strong
• Helps small businesses stay competitive with urban employers
• Creates a strong connection between HAECP/ Holdrege Chamber/PCDC