Lee Middlebrooks reflects on the importance of supporting caregivers in the workplace, drawing from personal experiences with family caregiving. The presentation highlights the mental and physical toll on caregivers, advocating for organizational support to help them maintain work-life balance and productivity. By establishing tailored programs, companies can enhance employee satisfaction and retention, ultimately fostering a more supportive work environment.

1. Lee Middlebrooks - Director
Project Leader

2.  In 2012, I was asked to give a presentation on
Caregivers to a group of HR professionals. The
event was sponsored by a major law firm here in
Atlanta. I reluctantly accepted because I knew
that the EEOC did not have any particular law that
prohibits discrimination against caregivers per
se, and I would have to do some research.
 That research and the subsequent presentation
started me on the journey that I am on today. It
resurfaced memories of my mother’s struggle
with cancer and my family’s search for resources.
Something as simple as a hospital bed that would
make her more comfortable.

3.  When I was recruited for this job, I accepted because I was told
that this company really cares about what we do, and that I could
do something innovative and cutting edge. I completed the
assignments that I was given and when the time was right, I dug
out my presentation on Caregivers and reviewed it. Then, I
remembered that it was all about the law and the fact that the
EEOC and the DOL are interested in Caregivers, but, from more
of a legal perspective.
 My interest is different this time, because I remember my own
family’s journey. Fortunately, this time I am in a position to
make a difference for many more people. My mother always said
that she had always wanted to be a nurse. She helped her sick
and dying family and friends all of her life. She was a Caregiver
in every sense of the word. She was always proud of me, but, I
know that she would be even more proud of me, for doing
something that she would have done without a moment’s
hesitation, given the chance.

4.  Did you know that Caregivers frequently suffer from depression,
anxiety and various and frequent health issues as a result of the
stress and physical exertion that inherently comes from
caregiving ?
 I was overwhelmed when I read an entry in a group chat from a
young woman (24 years old) whose husband has a deteriorating
illness. She has two kids and doesn’t know where to turn. She
has to work because now, she is the only one who can work. She
is scared that she is going to lose her job because she is so tired
from taking care of her husband’s needs and her kids need her
too. And, without other support, she doesn’t know what to do.
She doesn’t know where to turn.
 There are people we all know like this. They probably work with
you or for you. They need understanding, support, referrals and
maybe just a break to recharge, so they can continue what they
are required to do.

5.  Allow our team to meet with your team to determine their needs.
The Caregivers that work for you can tell us what they need to
maintain a healthy work life balance, so they can be more
productive for you.
 Many caregivers are afraid to reach out to management because
they are afraid that once management becomes aware of their
situation, they will be terminated. Let us be their buffer and tell
us what they may be afraid to tell you.
 We will design a program for your employee|caregivers. You will
decide, what you would like to see happen. We will work with
you for a period of time or indefinitely.
 We have done the research. We are confident that we can help.
Let us know whether you want us to handle all or part of a
custom designed program for you.

6.  We believe that work|life balance is key to attracting and
retaining talent. Even after you hire the best talent you
can find, you must work just as hard to keep them.
 Keeping high performing talent is important for the
growth and sustainability of your business. Loyalty
develops when others see how you treat their colleagues.
Money is not the only motivation for staying on a job.
 Why not be or become one of the best places to work in
America and yes, even globally. That’s a great distinction
for any company.
 You can do it! Cirology Can Help!

7. Go to www.cirology.com or contact
Lee Middlebrooks
lmiddlebrooks@cirology.com
404-480-3757
(m) 404-516-6995