This Family Friendly Fund (FFF) was created during PSU‑AAUP contract negotiations in 2023 and is described in Article 33 on Caregivers Recognition and Support. It was designed to reimburse members for travel‑related or unexpected work-related caregiving costs, but in the most recent round of contract negotiations, eligible expenses were expanded to include ongoing caregiving costs.
What it covers:
The fund was created to reimburse caregiving expenses in two categories: mitigating impacts of work activities (e.g., university travel, professional development, research) and offsetting unexpected or ongoing caregiving costs that interfere with work demands. Examples include:
- Care or travel for a dependent so a member can attend a conference, workshop, or conduct research.
- Additional dependent care at home required by professional travel or schedule changes.
- Emergency care due to illness, or added costs from school/child/eldercare closures, evening/weekend university events, or disrupted regular arrangements.
Although these types of expenses are given highest priority for reimbursement, members with ongoing caregiving expenses may also now apply for reimbursement from the fund.
How to apply:
Requests are reviewed four times per year by a committee composed of AAUP members: October 1 (Summer expenses), December 1 (Fall), March 1 (Winter), and May 1 (Spring). Submit the online application form and include receipts. If unsure about eligibility, members are encouraged to apply and the review committee will determine fit.