In keeping with its community-minded approach to business, Freedom Credit Union recently announced its support for Square One’s “Back to Square One” capital campaign for its new campus. The credit union pledged $7,500 for the project.
“This gift represents Freedom Credit Union’s strong support for our mission and vision for the future of the families who live and work here,” says Kristine Allard, Vice President of Development & Communication for Square One. “We know that our new campus will play a vital role in positioning our region’s young children for long-term success. We are so grateful to our friends at Freedom Credit Union and everyone who has supported our campaign.”
“We are proud to support the important work Square One does every day to help children and families in our community grow and thrive,” said Freedom Credit Union President Glenn Welch. “Their vision to effect meaningful change that results in more promising futures for children, families and our community closely reflects our own cooperative spirit.”
In March of 2023, Square One formally announced plans to expand access to its high-quality early learning and care for the region’s children and families. Since that time, the campaign has succeeded in securing over $13 million to build a new early learning and family support center in Springfield’s south end, at the same location where Square One once stood prior to the 2011 tornado. The building is slated to open next month.
Simultaneously, the demand for Square One’s family support services grew to the point where Square One will have already outgrown the 26,000 square foot building, before opening its doors. While the success of its programs and services is something to be celebrated, the limited space was presenting a significant challenge.
To answer this need, Balise Auto generously donated a building adjacent to the new construction. The unoccupied building needs approximately $4 million in renovations. Renovations will begin following the completion of the new construction.