On November 12, 2024, KConnect held its inaugural Advocacy Day in Lansing, with a focus on Family Leave Optimal Coverage (FLOC) as one of seven priorities in our Shared Policy Agenda. Joined by cross-sector partners and community voices, we are making strides in advocacy to ensure that every child and family in our region has the support they need across the prenatal to career continuum.
Why is KConnect Advocating?
KConnect’s advocacy in Lansing is grounded in our original structure, which included advancing systems change through collaborative policy work. Since day one, KConnect has been dedicated to building strong relationships with policymakers, emphasizing that systemic changes can be achieved when we listen to and elevate the voices of those most affected by policy decisions. Through these relationships, KConnect is actively working to establish itself as a policy partner legislators can rely on for insights and support.
By serving as a policy resource and trusted partner, KConnect empowers legislators to understand community needs and craft policies that create equitable opportunities for all. We remain dedicated to informing and supporting policy discussions that benefit our community, ensuring that we stay within the scope of our organization’s mission and values, as well as staying well within our legal boundaries as a nonprofit organization.
What is FLOC?
Family Leave Optimal Coverage (FLOC) is designed to address gaps in family leave policies by advocating for comprehensive, paid leave options that cover various caregiving needs, including parental leave, eldercare, and medical leave for family members. FLOC emphasizes creating a flexible, inclusive model that supports low-wage workers, who often lack access to adequate leave, enabling them to take time off without risking their income or job security. Through partnerships with policymakers, community organizations, and employers, FLOC seeks to implement a coverage framework that ensures all families, regardless of income or job type, have access to paid leave when they need it most.
With the post-election Lame Duck session fast approaching, we recognize a pivotal opportunity to harness legislative momentum for FLOC. This period presents a unique moment to push forward on critical issues, and KConnect used Advocacy Day to maximize this window by focusing our efforts on passing FLOC. This initiative aligns with KConnect’s mission to advocate for children and families, supporting their success from the earliest stages of life through their careers and beyond.
Shared Agenda to Shared Advocacy
Advocacy Day reflects a significant shift from simply defining a Shared Policy Agenda to actively engaging in Shared Advocacy. By uniting voices across sectors and amplifying community perspectives, we are demonstrating the power of collective action to drive meaningful policy changes. Through initiatives like FLOC, we envision a future where Michigan’s families are better supported and more resilient, and we are committed to advocating for policies that prioritize their well-being every step of the way.
As KConnect continues its work in Lansing, we are building a strong foundation for lasting partnerships that will enable us to advocate for equitable, supportive policies across Michigan. Together with our partners and community, we are transforming the vision of a thriving community into a reality for every individual in Kent County.
Resources and Additional Learning:
KConnect PACE Forward Podcast: Advocacy Day 2024 (KConnect, 2024)
KConnect Policy Partner One Pager (KConnect, 2024)
Family Leave Optimal Coverage One Pager (Michigan League for Public Policy, 2024)
Family Leave Optimal Coverage Toolkit (Mothering Justice, 2024)
What Nonprofits Need to Know About Lobbying in Your State (Alliance for Justice, 2024)
Yes, Nonprofits, You Can Lobby (Alliance for Justice, 2014)
