I work U play - Association for the Professional Integration of Mothers

Our mission:

The association’s goal is to promote the professional integration of mothers and, consequently, their integration into society.

To this end, the city provides them with (i) a coworking space so they can focus on their professional projects under optimal conditions, (ii) time, thanks to occasional childcare services in an adjacent room, and (iii) all of this at a low cost.

Summary of our project:

The arrival of children is almost invariably linked to women stopping work or reducing their working hours, thereby reducing their financial independence. We want to give them a chance to enter the workforce by addressing one of the main obstacles that contributes to their isolation and impoverishment: the lack of childcare options for their children.

 In fact, having childcare for a few hours allows women to pursue a career path (job search or entrepreneurship) and is therefore key to women’s professional integration and independence.

To this end, the association provides them with:

• a coworking space that allows you to focus under optimal conditions

• time (thanks to occasional childcare services)

• All at a low cost!

Where and when? Key information:

• Launching in early 2023

• A six-month duration

• Premises located at Place de la Gare in Lausanne, thanks to a partnership with the Powerhouse association, which hosts our coworking space and daycare

• One Goal: Within three years, to have multiple accessible spaces throughout the city to reach a broader population

How?

• Five offices equipped with computers are available from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., three days a week

• Easy reservations, online or by phone

• In total, more than 1,620 hours of coworking space are offered for this pilot project 

• Childcare provided on a rotating basis by parents and volunteers of all ages: intergenerational support is encouraged

• The fee charged should ensure that everyone can benefit from this service.

Our Request

The pilot project’s budget primarily includes the following costs:

• Rent for coworking spaces and daycare facilities

• Furnishing the space

• Communication expenses (including the website)

We hope to raise the maximum amount (3,000 CHF) to help us launch this project.