SCU Credit Union Makes "Free to Be" Membership Initiative Possible for Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro South
SCU Credit Union announces a multi-year partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro South (BGCMS) to sponsor the organization’s groundbreaking "Free to Be" initiative, which offers universally no-cost annual memberships for all youth ages 5–18. On Thursday, September 23rd, leaders from SCU Credit Union, BGCMS, the City of Brockton, the local business community, and other supporters, including Representative Rita Mendes, Representative Bridget Plouffe, and Representative Michelle Dubois, gathered at the Brockton Clubhouse to launch this critical program.
Addressing Community Needs
This new partnership with SCU Credit Union, a longtime Club ally, is what makes this bold commitment to Metro South youth and families possible. As the cost of living and global challenges have grown exponentially, community organizations like BGCMS are more vital than ever in closing the gap for families in the region. Kids need the resources and support BGCMS offers now more than ever, and this inspiring new effort helps ensure that the life-changing benefits of Club membership are within reach for every child.
“Today, we are joining with Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro South to ensure that all children will have free access to the clubs to learn about leadership, get help with homework, find their calling, and have fun,” said SCU Credit Union President & CEO, Glenn Parsons, during the event’s speaking program. “Working together, we have committed to making membership free for all children so they’re free to belong, to be inspired, and to dream big.”
What "Free to Be" Provides
The "Free to Be" initiative is a reflection of the Club’s deep commitment to its 2,000+ current members and the thousands more it seeks to serve in the future. Now, at no cost to families, youth receive:
- A healthy meal each night.
- A safe place to explore new things, hone skills, and build new friendships.
- College prep support, career readiness training, and personal finance classes.
- Community service-learning opportunities.
- Access to quality elective programs in STEM exploration, creative arts, and physical and social recreation.
- Daily homework help and social-emotional support.
- Caring mentors who help develop character and leadership skills while inspiring youth to pursue and achieve great futures.
A Celebration and a Look Back
The launch celebration included a welcome reception, a speaking program with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Clubhouse tours, and a cake cutting to celebrate the 35th Birthday of the Brockton Clubhouse, which first began serving youth in the fall of 1990.
“This fall marks 35 years since the doors of this Clubhouse opened to begin serving the youth of Brockton,” said BGCMS President & CEO, Derek Heim, during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “The work to make that possible began late in 1987 when a small but deeply committed group of community leaders set their sights on making their dreams of having a dedicated youth center in Brockton a reality.”
“There are so many folks to thank for helping to make that happen for those kids and for the thousands who’ve benefited from that vision and commitment in the 35 years since, but at the top of that list are some truly inspiring Club champions whose impact for our members began all those years ago, but whose dedication has yet to wane or waiver,” Heim added.
