Planet Fitness Reaches $5 Million Fundraising Milestone Benefitting Boys & Girls Clubs of America
Posted: October 23, 2019 in Chains
Planet Fitness
HAMPTON, N.H. – Planet Fitness, Inc., one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the U.S. and home of the Judgement Free Zone, announced that together with its franchisees, partners and members, it has raised more than $5 million since 2016 for its nonprofit partner, Boys & Girls Clubs of America. This fundraising effort is made possible through Planet Fitness’ philanthropic initiative, The Judgement Free Generation, which aims to prevent bullying and promote kindness among youth.
From September 1 – 30, Planet Fitness raised $1 million thanks to generous donations from its members, franchisees and partners. During the campaign, members were invited to make donations at the front desk of Planet Fitness clubs and online. Funds raised support Judgement Free Generation programs, such as anti-bullying and pro-kindness trainings for Boys & Girls Club professionals and youth as well as scholarships for Boys & Girls Club teen leaders who embody the values of kindness and acceptance. Since 2016, the company and its franchisees have also built more than 25 judgement-free mini fitness centers in Boys & Girls Clubs in select locations across the U.S.
“We are committed to creating spaces of kindness, inclusion and acceptance throughout every single one of our Clubs,” said Boys & Girls Clubs of America President and CEO Jim Clark. “We sincerely appreciate Planet Fitness’ continued support and partnership in this mission.”
Studies show that about 1 in 5 students ages 12 – 18 have experienced bullying nationwide*, with the most commonly-reported types of bullying including verbal harassment (79 percent), social harassment (50 percent), physical bullying (29 percent) and cyberbullying (25 percent).** Together, Planet Fitness and Boys & Girls Clubs of America are addressing this important issue and are committed to continue making headway in fostering safe, inclusive environments for today’s youth.
“One young person being bullied is too many,” said Chris Rondeau, Planet Fitness CEO. “As the home of the Judgement Free Zone®, Planet Fitness is committed to supporting this cause and helping to shape a judgement free generation.”
To learn more about The Judgement Free Generation and Planet Fitness’ pro-kindness movement, please visit givingback.planetfitness.com.
*National Center for Education Statistics. “Bullying: Fast Facts.” Accessed Aug. 21, 2019. https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=719
**Youth Truth Student Survey. “How Are Students Experiencing Bullying?” Accessed Aug. 21, 2019. https://youthtruthsurvey.org/bullying/.
