FFW Application and Certification Matrix

Family Friendly Workplaces Application and Certification Matrix

This document includes all instructions and questions from the Family Friendly Workplaces (FFW) Certification Application and Matrix. It is intended to help employers preview and prepare responses before submitting the application online, as well as to estimate their certification level.

Once this form is completed, visit www.familyfriendlyworkplaces.org and click the “Join Today” button. Be sure to check for a confirmation email after submitting.

Application Process and Rules:

• Employers self-score their organization’s benefits using the matrix included in the application.
• Submitted applications are reviewed by FFW staff, and certification is awarded at the appropriate level   (Bronze, Silver, or Gold).
• To be eligible for points, a benefit must be a documented company policy or a consistently implemented practice.
• If your organization supports a child care facility, it must be licensed and hold at least a three-star quality rating to qualify for points.
• Certification is valid for three years; re-certification is required at the end of each cycle.

Conduit Contribution

Through the FFW Conduit, certified employers direct an annual donation to a nonprofit organization that supports families. The only requirement is that the recipient be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports families or children. FFW retains none of these funds; 100% is passed directly to the nonprofit selected. The annual conduit contribution serves as your organization’s certification dues and is required to maintain good standing.

Unless otherwise requested, FFW will direct future annual contributions in the same amount and to the same nonprofit selected during initial certification. To change your designated nonprofit or update your full-time equivalent employee count at any time, simply contact us.

Note: Employers applying through the Jackson County Child Care Network (JCCCN) Affiliation will have their conduit contribution automatically directed to JCCCN.

Program Overview

The Family Friendly Workplaces (FFW) Certification Program recognizes employers that prioritize policies and practices supporting families and children. Certification is awarded at the Bronze, Silver, or Gold level based on points earned through the FFW Matrix.

Certification Levels:

• Gold – Distinguished Employer
  Provides a very high level of family-friendly employment practices and financial support for family-serving nonprofits.
  Required Points: 140+
• Silver – Strongly Supportive Employer
  Offers robust family-friendly benefits and nonprofit support.
   Required Points: 90–139
• Bronze – Supportive Employer
  Demonstrates meaningful family-friendly practices and charitable support.
   Required Points: 50–89

Point values for each matrix item are listed throughout the application. Once certified, employers may use the trademarked FFW logo in marketing, communications, and recruiting efforts.