Unity in Action

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

Launched in 2020 under the visionary leadership of Board President Burt Kleinman, the Wycliffe Cares Program was created to provide critical support to employees facing unexpected crises. This innovative program was built on a foundation of confidentiality, efficiency, and compassion, ensuring that employees could access assistance when they needed it most.

A partnership with a trusted third-party administrator was established to guarantee privacy and streamline the application process. Clear guidelines were implemented, covering essential areas such as medical emergencies, housing, transportation, basic needs, and unforeseen hardships, with a maximum annual grant of $3,500 per employee.

To ensure accessibility, a user-friendly online application platform was developed, enabling employees to apply quickly and easily from any device. Funding for the program is sustained through generous contributions from the Club, Members, and employees, along with creative community fundraising initiatives and merchandise sales, such as Wycliffe Cares hats. Awareness campaigns, including educational sessions and digital outreach, ensured employees understood the program’s benefits while maintaining their privacy.

What sets Wycliffe Cares apart is its responsiveness. Once an application is approved, funds are distributed within 24 to 72 hours, providing timely relief to employees in need. By the end of 2024, the program had disbursed over $100,000 in grants, directly improving the lives of employees and their families.

This initiative exemplifies Wycliffe’s unwavering commitment to its employees, fostering a culture of care, trust, and community. Wycliffe Cares isn’t just a program—it’s a lifeline, a source of hope, and a testament to what’s possible when compassion and innovation come together to support those who make the Wycliffe community thrive.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

The Wycliffe Cares Program has become a cornerstone of the Club’s culture, profoundly enhancing the experience for both employees and members. By providing vital financial support during challenging times, the program has significantly bolstered employee morale. Staff feel genuinely valued and supported, creating a positive work environment that drives loyalty, retention, and engagement. This sense of care energizes the workforce, cultivating a cohesive and motivated team committed to excellence.

Members have embraced Wycliffe Cares with enthusiasm, actively participating in fundraisers and merchandise sales to support the program. Their involvement has forged a deeper connection between Members and employees, uniting the community in a shared mission of compassion. This strengthened bond has elevated the overall club experience, fostering a culture where kindness and collaboration thrive.

Beyond its immediate impact, Wycliffe Cares has elevated the Club’s reputation as an employer of choice and a pioneer in compassionate leadership. Since its inception in 2020, the program has distributed over $100,000 in grants to 37 employees, demonstrating the Club’s unwavering commitment to its people. By embodying a culture of generosity, Wycliffe sets a powerful example of how organizations can uplift their communities, ensuring that both employees and Members feel proud to be part of something truly extraordinary.