In 1990 just 12 percent of major U.S. companies offered financial aid for adoption. Last year, that number had increased to 47 percent. Many companies also offer other benefits, such as paid time off and referral services.

"Offering generous adoption benefits gives a company a more family friendly image, even among those who aren't directly affected by adoption, said Rita Soronen, executive director of the Dave Thomas Foundation..."

Federal law mandates up to 12 weeks of unpaid family leave for adoptions, but doesn't require much else. Because fewer than one percent of U.S. employees take advantage of adoption benefits, they're also an inexpensive way for a company to improve its image. Source: The Cincinnati Enquirer

Labels: benefits, assistance, employers

Posted By: Aspen Education Group 0 Comments

The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption recently named Wayne Farms LLC in its top-10 list of Best Adoption-Friendly Workplaces in the food, beverage and restaurant industry. The company is located in Oakwood, Georgia and employs over 9500 people in 13 facilities in the South and Southeastern parts of the United States.

"The Wayne Farms adoption program offers employee reimbursements up to $5,000 for a nonspecial-needs child or $6,000 for a special-needs child."

The reimbursement can be used for nearly any legitimate cost associated with an adoption. Paid time off is also included as part of the company's employee adoption program.

Read more at LeaderCall.com.

Labels: adoption_costs, families, employers

Posted By: Aspen Education Group 0 Comments

Standard Register is an Ohio-based leading provider of document and print management services. But it recently gained recognition as a leader in something else: providing a "beneficial and comprehensive adoption policy" for its employees.

"Established in January 2006, Standard Register's policy on adoption provides employees with up to $4,000 of financial assistance as well as up to four weeks of paid leave. These benefits apply to both female and male employees."

The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption ® recently recognized the company, ranking it third among Ohio-based workplaces and fourth on a nationwide list of companies that are considered "adoption friendly". Read more online.

Adoption, drugs and teens can sometimes go together. Learn more about teens and drugs from the Adolescent Substance Abuse Knowledge Base.

Labels: financial_assistance, employers, adoption_policy

Posted By: Aspen Education Group 0 Comments