Flex-Options is a national mentoring program managed by the Women's Chamber of Commerce of Texas in the five-state Southwest Region for the US Department of Labor Women's Bureau. There is no charge for the program, which is open to both WCCT members and nonmembers.

The goal is to help businesses create or enhance workplace flexibility policies and programs for their workforces. The program brings together corporate executives and entrepreneurs who volunteer to mentor business owners interested in developing flexible workplace policies.

When entrepreneurs implement flexible work options, employees are better able to manage work and life responsibilities, an important quality of life benefit. Business owners realize positive bottom line results, as well. A value-added benefit is the opportunity to network, connect and learn from high-level executives, and share best practices with others in the program.

The Women's Bureau holds teleconferences focusing on important flexible work arrangement issues such as trends in workplace flexibility, challenges to flexible work arrangements, job sharing, legal issues, and best practices. Additional information is available on the Flex-Options for Women website at www.we-inc.org/flex.html.

For information on participating in the Women's Chamber Flex-Options program as either a mentor or mentee, contact Rose Batson 512.338.0839 or Lisa Mikals 817.714.1846.