The Employer's Secret Weapon: Family Resource Centers

Family problems can be costly to employers. Several recent studies have linked stress in a worker's family with decreased productivity, increased absence and negative attitudes at work. In the current social climate, family stress appears to be at an all-time high. A record number of New Hampshire workers face caring for distressed or ill relatives, are dealing with complex and difficult problems

Trying to help a co-worker with a family-related problem can be extremely tricky business. Smart employers--those who understand the cost of family stress to productivity--have learned that partnering with community agencies for the benefit of their employees' family life can both improve the workplace environment and boost the bottom line.

Sometimes, however, the usual referral paths--health-care providers, mental health services or social service agencies--just aren't a good fit or carry heavy labels or stigmas that can frighten workers away. Enter the New Hampshire employer's new best friend: the local family resource center.

Family resource centers are community-based collaborations dedicated to strengthening families through education and support. In short, they are parents and professionals working together to help families get information, education and access to resources that reduce family stress.

Each of the 13 centers throughout the state (and that number is growing) developed independently out of the needs and impetus of local communities, and each is governed by local parents and professionals. Consequently, each center offers slightly different programs geared to the needs of local folks.

One great example is the Hub Family Resource Center in Dover. According to Executive Director Greg Burdwood, some community businesses are regular center collaborators. Liberty Mutual Insurance, the area's largest employer, not only refers employees to the Hub, but has hosted in-house parenting classes taught by Hub staff.

"It's a great example of community cooperation," says Burdwood. "We have helped their employees and they, in turn, have rolled up their sleeves and volunteered to help us."

Among the Hub's many popular programs for Dover families is a dads' group that focuses on particular issues for fathers. The classes opened with one dad, but by the second week 22 fathers were participating. In 2007, the Hub reached more than 800 families in the Dover area with education, resources and referral services.