Want to get involved?

A few days ago I mentioned the lack of governmental support for working families. I don't think that many would argue against the idea that the government could do more to "encourage" companies to support parents.

However, having spent many years in the corporate environment, I am not sure that government intervention is the best approach. In my experience, companies put together better programs/resources/policies when they do so to be competitive. That is, (most)companies will comply with government regulations. But, they won't go beyond the minimal requirements. On the other hand, if competitive pressures to get top talent require a company to offer such programs/resources/policies, then they will likely do so. Of course we aren't there yet, but I predict that more and more companies will begin to offer family friendly work options.

Some companies, however, will not make changes unless they are forced to. So if you are looking for a way to help encourage our government to provide families with support, check out Moms Rising, a grassroots organization to support mothers. Further, 9 to 5, a National Organization for Working Women, recently released a report laying out an agenda for governmental suport (check it out here). If nothing more, strong support of these efforts will help send a message to companies that support for working families is needed.