Employee Benefits | Supporting Working Parents

Raising a family today is no small feat, especially with rising childcare costs and limited support systems. Working parents are under increasing pressure, and this is where employers can make a significant impact. Nike and Frontier Co-op offer unique solutions demonstrating how businesses can effectively support their employees.

Nike: Doubling Parental Leave for Enhanced Support

Nike continues to lead the way in employee well-being by significantly enhancing its parental leave benefits. As of June 2024, Nike has doubled its paid parental leave from eight to 16 weeks for all U.S.-based employees, including part-time retail staff for the first time. This increase allows new parents more time to bond with their child following birth, adoption, or foster placement.

This change highlights Nike’s commitment to supporting its employees throughout their journey to parenthood. Nike fosters a supportive and inclusive environment by extending this benefit to all parents, regardless of their employment status. The company’s approach underscores the importance of offering robust parental leave, ensuring all employees feel valued and supported during such an important time in their lives.

Frontier Co-op: Affordable Onsite Childcare and Community Focus

Frontier Co-op takes a different, yet equally impactful, approach to supporting working parents by directly addressing the financial burden of childcare. The company offers onsite childcare for just $2 an hour, a benefit significantly reducing employees’ financial stress. This affordable childcare option is available for children as young as six weeks, making it easier for parents to return to work without the anxiety of finding and affording reliable care.

Beyond offering affordable childcare, Frontier Co-op emphasizes community and support. The onsite childcare facility creates a sense of community among employees, who often appreciate being close to their children during the workday. This initiative improves job satisfaction and reduces turnover, as employees are more likely to stay with a company that supports their personal needs in such a tangible way.

Unique Approaches, Common Goals

While Nike and Frontier Co-op take different approaches to supporting working parents, both companies demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of their employees. Nike’s focus on flexibility and comprehensive leave allows parents to manage their time and responsibilities more effectively. At the same time, Frontier Co-op’s affordable childcare solution addresses one of the most significant financial challenges working parents face.

By recognizing the unique needs of their employees and offering tailored support, Nike and Frontier Co-op are not just improving employee satisfaction—they’re building cultures where employees and their families can thrive.

Originally featured in UBA’s August 2024 HR Elements Newsletter.