Get Certified

Overview

Welcome! We're glad you're here.

Family Forward NC is an innovative initiative to improve children’s health and well-being and keep North Carolina’s businesses competitive. If you're new to Family Forward, check out the links below to learn more or apply for our Family Forward NC Employer Certification today.

Why Should My Workplace Get Certified?

Employers across North Carolina want to attract and retain the best employees, and they want those employees to be happy and healthy. 

Yet the U.S. is facing a massive talent shortage that will result in a deficit of six to 12 million workers by 2030. And a child care crisis, coupled with lack of supports like paid family leave, means pregnant workers and working parents and caregivers—especially women—are disproportionately forced to change jobs or leave the workforce entirely or are unable to rejoin the workforce after giving birth.

A Competitive Advantage

Family-friendly workplaces have a competitive advantage. 

  • They attract and retain more top talent, and their employees are more productive and more committed. 
  • Plus, family-friendly employers benefit from reduced employee health care costs, a healthier work environment, and fewer employee absences. 

For children and families, the benefits of family-friendly workplaces are numerous and long-lasting. They include positive impacts on health, development and well-being, financial stability, and future career success. 

Our Family Forward NC Employer Certification designates employers that offer policies and practices that support the health and well-being of working families and children. By becoming a Family Forward NC Certified Employer, you show potential employees, customers and stakeholders that you care about working families and children and that you are a workplace where pregnant workers, parents and caregivers will feel supported and can thrive. 

Learn more about our certification process and fees.

Download our one-page certification handout to share.