DETROIT – More than 50 Planet Fitness Detroit-area locations announced today that they are holding a school supply drive with all donations benefiting children in grades K-12 at Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan (“BGCSM”). The drive kicks off on Monday, July 31st at every Planet Fitness location in the area. The locations are owned and operated by two franchise groups, EPIC Fitness Group and Impact Fitness. Find a location here and donate through August 18th at 7PM.
Items being collected range from writing utensils and notebooks to art supplies, backpacks and more. There is no minimum donation and Planet Fitness members and nonmembers are invited to contribute. All items will be distributed by BGBSM staff to local children in need.
Local Planet Fitness franchise owners have had a longstanding partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, dating back more than a decade. Together with BGCSM, they are working to end bullying, spread kindness and empower a generation to contribute to a more judgement free planet.
Due to rising cost and inflation, some estimates say parents will spend an average of $890 on back-to-school this season, a number that continues to increase annually, according to a recent study. Coupled with increased costs for gas and food, school supply costs can be challenging for some families.
“We know that unexpected cost increases are putting a strain on family finances,” said Bryan Rief, co-owner and CEO of EPIC Fitness Group, one of the participating franchisees. “Our hope is that these school supply donations will ease that strain for families in the community, so they can focus on the excitement of a new school year and focus on learning and developing.”
Those wishing to donate can show up to any of the 50+ Metro Detroit Planet Fitness locationsand drop off supplies on the designated donation table inside the club. Donations will be accepted until 7:00 PM on August 18th.
“Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan is grateful for our partnership with Planet Fitness. Over the years they have supported our Clubs, youth, and families in a variety of ways. This back-to-school campaign removes the barrier of access to essential tools and resources and allows youth to enter the school year ready to learn and ultimately be successful. Thank you, Planet Fitness, and all who have chosen to support this amazing campaign. BGCSM greatly appreciate your support,” said Alise Dixon, Chief Program Officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan
About Planet Fitness
Founded in 1992 in Dover, NH, Planet Fitness is one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the world by number of members and locations. As of March 31, 2023, Planet Fitness had more than 18.1 million members and 2,446 stores in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, Mexico and Australia. The Company’s mission is to enhance people’s lives by providing a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment, which we call the Judgement Free Zone®. More than 90% of Planet Fitness stores are owned and operated by independent business men and women.
Source: Planet Fitness