Four Manchester area employers have been named winners of the prestigious 2009 Alfred P. Sloan Awards for Business Excellence in Workplace Flexibility, the Manchester-based Family Education Collaborative announced in July.

The winners - Dynamic Network Services, Inc, Image 4, Child and Family Services, and YWCA Manchester - were named by When Work Works, a national initiative recognizing effective and flexible workplaces. Winners are organizations that scored in the top 20 percent of a national employers’ survey; employees were also surveyed.

The local When Work Works project is part of the Family Education Collaborative organized by UNH Cooperative Extension, UNH-Manchester, YWCA, and Child and Family Services, to strengthen individuals and families in greater Manchester. When Work Works helps bridge the needs of Manchester’s working families and their employers, promoting healthier families and a more productive workforce.

 “We are working hard to get the message out about the advantages of workplace flexibility to employers and employees. We are thrilled to recognize these exemplary employers in Manchester and New Hampshire,” said Sharon Cowen, UNH Cooperative Extension Educator and director of the Manchester When Work Works project.

Since their inception, the Sloan Awards have honored companies of all sizes for developing a workplace that meets the needs of both employees and employers. According to Ellen Galinsky, president of the Families and Work Institute, “Sloan Award winners have shown how they can support the needs of their employees while also making their organizations more effective and successful.”

The Family Education Collaborative will present the Sloan Awards on September 22 at YWCA Manchester. The winners will also receive national recognition.

When Work Works is supported by the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce and a committee of community and business advisors, joining 29 other community and statewide initiatives throughout the United States.

For resources on workplace flexibility, including research reports, business briefs and tips, please visit www.whenworkworks.org or contact Sharon Cowen at UNH Cooperative Extension 603-641-6060