Lincoln Littles and the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development on Tuesday announced a new Lincoln Family-Friendly Workplaces Certification Program designed to recognize employers that adopt policies supporting employees with young children.
The initiative aims to help companies attract and retain talent by formalizing standards around benefits such as paid parental leave, flexible scheduling/remote work, and caregiver supports. To be certified, employers must meet at least 7 of 10 qualifying criteria, with examples and guidance provided for each category.
“Family-friendly policies aren’t just the right thing to do, they’re a smart business strategy,” said Anne Brandt, executive director of Lincoln Littles. “Supporting working parents through initiatives such as childcare assistance helps companies attract talent, reduce turnover and build a stronger, more resilient workforce.”
The effort aligns with LPED’s Vitality Lincoln Strategic Plan, which prioritizes expanding early childhood education and care capacity as part of broader workforce development. “By ensuring working parents have access to quality early childhood education, we are not only helping families thrive, we are also strengthening their participation in Lincoln’s workforce,” said Allison Hatch, LPED’s director of workforce development.
Full program details and the application are available at selectlincoln.org.
How it works
Eligibility: Meet 7/10 criteria (e.g. paid parental leave, hybrid options, caregiver resources).
Application: Free self-assessment (~15 minutes) submitted online and quarterly reviews by the Lincoln Littles Board of Advisors Engagement Committee.
Recognition: Certified employers appear on a public map for job seekers and families, are recognized on LPED/Lincoln Littles websites and social channels, receive event recognition, a window decal and digital badge for recruiting and promotion.