Balancing Work and Home

As Michael Holt, a network administrator with University Development, planned the arrival of his first son, he figured he would spend a week or two at home after the birth. When his vacation and sick time started to run low, he would return to work.

But a human resources representative let Holt know he had more flexibility to support his family as a new dad.

Thanks to Duke's parental leave benefit, Holt was able to attach three weeks of paid time off to vacation and sick time he used when his son, William, was born in 2004.

"I was amazed that, as a father, I could actually get paid time off to take care of my child," said Holt, who is 40 and has worked at Duke for three years. "I assumed it would be available only for a mother."

The benefit, which resulted from the Women's Initiative, provides up to three consecutive weeks of 100 percent paid leave to eligible employees who serve as a primary caregiver. The benefit applies to both men and women following birth or adoption of a child.

Since the benefit was introduced in 2003, 927 employees have taken the paid leave. Of those, 106 were fathers; 821, mothers.

"The purpose of this leave is to provide time for bonding with the parent and child," said Denise L. Evans, director of staff and labor relations for Human Resources. "We recognize the importance of family commitment within our work environment."

In addition to the parental leave benefit, other outcomes resulted from the Women's Initiative to support employees' balancing work and family life. For example, the creation of the Duke Child Care Partnership offers employees priority placement at 29 local child care centers; and flexible work options offer alternatives to a traditional business day, helping employees with work and home responsibilities.

For Holt, six weeks at home with his son was an unforgettable experience. He appreciated the quality time with his son outdoors, hiking in area parks.

"That extra time really allowed us to bond," Holt said. "Without this benefit, I never would have understood what it meant to feel the joy and responsibility of caring for my son around the clock."

When Holt and his wife, Kathy, learned a second child was on the way, Holt applied for a second leave. Alexander was born in May, and Holt again was able to stay home to care for the newborn.