United for a Fair Economy is sponsoring the launch of the Living Wage Network. The network is composed of living wage certification programs that recognize employers who pay a living wage, significantly impacting the lives of tens of thousands of low-wage workers across the country. Currently, seven of the network’s members actively certify employers in locations nationwide. Go to www.livingwagenetwork.org for a list of programs and their locations.

The mission of the Living Wage Network is to support worker livelihoods by encouraging high-road employers to pay a living wage and by promoting living wages as a matter of conscience within communities.

To date, over 2,500 small and medium sized businesses across the country have certified their willingness to pay a living wage to their employees. By linking organizations across the nation through this network, the Living Wage Network will expand and support the movement for living wages and lift up employers who believe it is good business to pay livable wages to all workers.

The Living Wage Network sees two key benefits to our certification approach. First, growing these programs will provide relief and immediate wage benefits to workers. Second, by supporting employers who account for their community in their bottom lines, we encourage a cultural shift towards greater corporate responsibility.

The organizations in this network encourage and certify businesses, nonprofits, and other employers who pay a living wage. Each program has developed its own criteria for determining what constitutes a living wage, accounting for the cost of living in each unique community. This work has significantly impacted the lives of tens of thousands of low-wage workers across the country.

“UFE is excited to support the local living wage certification programs,” said Michael Young, a coordinator of the program with United for a Fair Economy. “We see this as one step towards a just economy. And we do this in solidarity with those organizing to increase the minimum wage across the United States.”

For more information visit www.livingwagenetwork.org.

About the Living Wage Network

The Living Wage Network exists to promote a just economy where workers are paid fairly, employers are successful, and our community thrives as a result.  Visit our website to learn more.

About United for a Fair Economy

United for a Fair Economy is a national, independent, nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that challenges the destructive effects of concentrated wealth and power and supports grassroots movements for greater economic equality.  Read more on our website.