While numerous employee resource groups in the industry are making significant impacts, AMC Networks’ PACE (Parent and Caregiver Employees) group stands out in a forest of tall trees for its commitment to supporting employees through all stages of parenting and caregiving. And it embodies the personal approach that ERGs everywhere strive to achieve.
When one AMC Networks employee inquired about how they could support a coworker whose 9-year-old son was fighting for his life, the PACE team created The WALK, a company-wide effort to raise money and awareness to help fight pediatric cancer.
The PACE team launched the event across AMC Networks’ offices in NYC, Santa Monica and Bethpage, with more than 100 employees showing up and walking to make a difference. More than $10,000 was raised across the three offices.
“The strength behind PACE comes from the passion of its chairs and members, who are the heart of this BERG (Business Employee Resource Group). We meet regularly and listen to what’s important for members and their families, then plan events that are meaningful to them,” says Dina Anchelowitz, Production Director for AMC Networks & Co-Chair of PACE. “Whether our members are raising kids or caring for an ailing elderly parent, spouse or any family member, the struggles we come across individually are what connects us. So many of these challenges are shared and our regular monthly meetings are filled with meaningful conversations on topics that touch so many of our members.”
Other highlights from PACE include its U.S. and U.K. chapters joining together to create a four-part series to assist parents with the challenges that come with cell phone and social media use. The Child Mind Institute joined a workshop for parents to share their concerns, thoughts and ideas with the group. PACE also had families complete a “Social Detox Challenge” during the summer, which was followed by a conversation with a parent coach.
PACE has also distinguished itself by creating the Buddy Program, connecting experienced parents/caregivers with members who are new to parenting or caregiving. “These are significant moments in our members’ lives, and having additional support and shared resources is not only a great benefit for whatever anyone might be dealing with, but also helps build relationships with colleagues they may not have even known before,” explains Lisa Marie Angelo, Director of Development & Original Production, Unscripted, ALLBLK/We TV & Co-Chair of PACE. “PACE brings people together with shared experiences and, as a group, we have conversations that are personal and kept confidential, so members can lean on each other for advice and support.”