Freedom Credit Union Contributes More Than $194,000 to Local Charities in 2024
SPRINGFIELD — Throughout 2024, Freedom Credit Union contributed financial support to dozens of local charitable organizations throughout the four counties of Western Mass., donating more than $194,000. Additionally, Freedom employees recorded more than 600 hours of volunteer time in 2024.
“Our members and staff are passionate about supporting our community,” Freedom Credit Union President Glenn Welch said. “In 2024, we were proud to increase our donations over 2023. This year, we’re asking our members to deepen their engagement by nominating local charitable organizations for us to support.”
The 2024 total donated includes more than $130,000 through corporate giving initiatives, more than $11,000 in member and employee donations through Freedom’s Month of Giving campaigns, and more than $53,000 through local branch and department discretionary fund donations.
Supported organizations include Alzheimer’s Assoc.; Baystate Foundation – Rays of Hope; Baystate Health; Boys and Girls Clubs of Chicopee, Ludlow, and Springfield; Children’s Advocacy Centers – Franklin County and Hampden County; Clinical Support Options (Friends of the Homeless); Cooley Dickinson Hospital; Elms College; Food Bank of Western Massachusetts; Gándara Center; Gray House; Greater Springfield and Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity; Greenfield Community College; Make-A-Wish; Miracle League of Western Massachusetts; National MS Society; New North Citizens Council; Ronald McDonald House; Shriners Children’s New England; Spirit of Springfield; Springfield Jazz Fest; Springfield Museums; Springfield School Volunteers; Stanley Park of Westfield; Town of Ludlow 250th celebration; Town of West Springfield 250th celebration; Western New England University; Westover Galaxy Community Council; and YMCAs in Springfield and Greenfield.
“Freedom was founded on a cooperative, not corporate, spirit,” Welch said. “We know that the financial health of our members is entwined with the financial health of our community, so our charitable efforts remain ongoing. In January, we raised funds for the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless, and throughout the month of February, we are asking the community to support two Pioneer Valley animal shelters — the Foundation for TJO Animals and Franklin County Regional Dog Shelter — in their work for our furry and feathered friends. Stay tuned for more opportunities all year long.”