Celebrating Family-Friendly Workplaces: Building a Thriving SLO County Together

South County Chambers of Commerce Partners with the SLO County Family-Friendly Workplaces Program to Promote Inclusive Workforce Practices

by Rebecca Briggs Baker, Visitor Services & Communications Director

At the November luncheon hosted by the South County Chambers of Commerce, the spotlight was on the SLO County Family-Friendly Workplaces program. This innovative initiative, spearheaded by Christina Lefevre Latner, MPP, Workforce Development Manager at the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes the value of family-friendly workplace practices in fostering a thriving local economy and a more inclusive community. 

The program offers free resources and support to businesses across the county, helping them attract and retain top talent through policies that accommodate working families. From enhancing recruitment efforts to boosting employee retention and productivity, the benefits of implementing family-friendly practices are extensive. Businesses that participate in the program not only stand out in a competitive labor market but also strengthen employee loyalty and satisfaction. 

A key feature of the program is the SLO County Family-Friendly Workplaces Assessment and Award. Over 250 organizations have already been assessed, receiving valuable insights into their practices and recognition for their commitment to family-friendly policies. Awardees gain a certificate, a digital seal, and public acknowledgment through press releases, email announcements, and social media, further cementing their reputation as progressive employers. 

Recognizing Excellence in Family-Friendly Practices 

The following businesses and organizations were honored with awards for their dedication to family-friendly workplaces in SLO County: 

Red Diamond Award Winners: 

• County of San Luis Obispo 

• Cuesta College 

• San Luis Obispo YMCA 

• Wallace Group 

Blue Diamond Award Winners: 

• Astound Broadband 

• CAPSLO 

• Carmel & Naccasha, LLP 

• Habitat for Humanity of SLO County 

• Idler’s Home 

• Morris and Garritano Insurance 

• Megan’s Organic Market 

• The Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County 

• Verdin Marketing 

Diamond Award Winners: 

• Atascadero Chamber of Commerce 

• Martin Resorts 

• Pismo Beach Veterinary Clinic 

• Transitions Mental Health Associations (THMA) 

• Vespera Resort 

Platinum Award Winners: 

• Glenn Burdette 

• Solarponics, Inc. 

Bronze Award Winners: 

• Friends of Camp Natoma, Inc. 

• Spokes 

The SLO County Family-Friendly Workplaces program exemplifies how local businesses can lead the way in creating a more supportive, equitable, and sustainable workforce environment. For more information on the program or to apply for an award, visit slofamilyfriendlywork.org. 

The South County Chambers of Commerce is proud to support the SLO County Family-Friendly Workplaces program, empowering businesses to attract and retain top talent while fostering a stronger, more inclusive community. Learn more about this impactful initiative and how your business can get involved at slofamilyfriendlywork.org. Together, we’re championing a brighter future for SLO County!