FRANKFORT, Ky. (Sept. 20, 2012) – Kentucky state government has been named the best of America’s adoption-friendly workplaces by the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. For the third year in a row, Kentucky placed first in the government industry category, tying with the City of Carmel, Ind.
The 100 Best Adoption-Friendly Workplaces List is compiled to honor employers who offer the best adoption benefits in America. Companies are ranked first on the maximum financial reimbursement provided for employees who adopt, then on the maximum number of weeks of paid leave for adoption. The Foundation compiled the results from its annual survey of U.S. employers to determine this year’s winners. Dave Thomas, an adoptee and the founder of Wendy’s Restaurants, established the Foundation twenty years ago.
Tim Longmeyer, Secretary of the Kentucky Personnel Cabinet, which administers the Commonwealth’s program said, “We’re humbled and honored to once again be recognized as one of the best adoption-friendly workplaces in America. Our adoption benefits provide employees with a little extra support while going through the process of bringing a new child into a family. It’s the least we can do to assist families who are literally giving life, love and opportunity to a child in need.”
Jamie Carwile, an administrative specialist, and her husband recently adopted a child from South Korea. “With the time I had accrued, I was able to be off for four months with pay when my son came home. As a new mom, that time spent bonding with my baby was priceless and will forever be cherished. Our family has truly been blessed and we will always be grateful to the Commonwealth for the role they played in our adoption.”
According to the foundation’s website, more than 100,000 children are available for adoption nationwide. Each year, nearly 30,000 of these youth will end up leaving the system when they turn 18 without a family.
To view all of the honorees, visit www.DaveThomasFoundation.org. For more about the Commonwealth’s adoption benefit, and to view testimonials of recipients, visit http://personnel.ky.gov/emprel/adoption/.
Add Comment