Albuquerque, NM — Family Friendly New Mexico (FFNM) will begin taking applications October 10th for the 2026 Family Friendly Business Award®, the statewide recognition program honoring employers who demonstrate a strong commitment to workplace policies and practices that support employees and their families.
"At Taos Ski Valley, being recognized by Family Friendly New Mexico reinforces what we believe at our core, that when our staff and their families are supported, our whole community thrives. In an outdoor industry where equity can be a challenge, especially for women, their resources and recognition encourage us to keep strengthening policies that allow our staff to balance work and family. This ensures everyone has the opportunity to contribute fully and bring their best selves to our mountain and our community," said Lori Rangel, Senior Human Resources Manager at Taos Ski Valley.
In its 11th year, the Family Friendly Business Award® continues to recognize businesses across New Mexico that are leading the way in fostering workplace cultures that promote employee well-being, retention, and long-term success. Award recipients are celebrated for implementing policies such as paid leave, health support, flexible work schedules, diversity and inclusion efforts, and community engagement.
"FFNM provides structured guidelines for employers to create programs and benchmarks, which indicate a sensitivity to the general needs of employees. As employers, we have the potential to provide a healthy, supportive and educational environment for our staff. The workplace is a community that can serve to promote positive values, healthy relationships and a place for personal growth for each employee," said Caren Phillips, CEO at Ravenna.
For 2026, FFNM has introduced a new Sustainability category, recognizing businesses that are actively working to reduce their environmental impact and promote a culture of sustainability in the workplace and community. This addition reflects the program's evolving vision of how family friendly practices extend beyond the workplace to support healthier communities and a thriving state.
"New Mexico businesses continue to demonstrate leadership by prioritizing their employees' needs and adapting to the challenges of today's workplace," said Gina Riccobono, FFNM Program Manager and owner of Flyby Provisions, a FFNM award recipient. "With the addition of the Sustainability category, we are proud to expand the conversation about what it means to be truly family friendly."
Applications for the 2026 Family Friendly Business Award® can be submitted at https://nmfamilyfriendlybusiness.org/ Award recipients will be recognized at the annual Family Friendly Business Awards Luncheon on April 30, 2026, at Sandia Resort and Casino.
