Aim is to help retain employees by offering options
The Greater Taylor Community Foundation is launching a pilot childcare program to improve employee retention starting with a local manufacturer of high-tech countertops for labs.
The foundation, working through its Childcare Impact Council and partnering with Durcon, said the Childcare Workforce Pilot Program is designed to support family stability and expand access for Taylor’s working parents so they don’t have to leave a job due to childcare issues, according to a release.
“Childcare is workforce infrastructure,” said foundation President Diana Phillips in a prepared statement. “The Childcare Impact Council has been working for two years to bring employer-based childcare solutions to Taylor. This (program) demonstrates what it looks like when employers and philanthropic partners step forward with solutions that help parents stay and thrive in the workforce.”
Durcon, 206 Allison Road, chose to lead the way in Taylor by taking part in the program, which will officially begin Wednesday, Oct. 21, sponsors said.
Under the initiative, Durcon employees will receive flexible childcare options for children of all ages, monthly childcare scholarships to reduce out-of-pocket costs, and access to the nation’s largest childcare technology platform partner TOOTRiS, an online resource that assists families in locating licensed openings.
“Durcon is proud to launch this childcare pilot for our employees,” said Director of Operations Richard Conde in a release. “Our team members are the heart of our company. When we remove barriers like childcare, we strengthen our workforce, improve retention and help families build long-term stability.”
According to its website, Durcon is a global manufacturer of epoxy products that are “durable, high-performance, heat- and chemical-resistant worksurfaces, sinks and accessories, which ensure longevity and consistency throughout a laboratory environment.”
In addition to the monthly childcare scholarships for Durcon workers, TOOTRiS is offering $54,000 of in-kind services, which include technology access, platform tools and navigation support.
The W.D. Kelley Foundation is an area partner to the Greater Taylor nonprofit and focuses its work on human services, employment and education, emphasizing the importance of employer- based childcare solutions.
“Supporting childcare access is one of the most effective ways to help families thrive,” said Carl Illig, executive director. “We are proud to partner with GTCF, Durcon and TOOTRiS to bring this innovative pilot to Taylor.”
The program will run through 2027, with officials conducting an evaluation of its effectiveness.
