The Urban League of Springfield to Use Half Million Dollar Contribution From MassMutual to Impact the Livelihood of Local Citizens

SPRINGFIELD, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--At a time when it’s never been more critical for all hands to be on deck to build meaningful, sustainable change when it comes to racial equity across America, the Urban League of Springfield announced it has received a $500,000 contribution from its longtime Springfield supporter and neighbor, Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual). This investment will be used to further support the Urban League’s ongoing work to establish equality in education and promote economic advancement for the African American and Black community throughout Greater Springfield.

“The national spotlight that has been shined on the inequities in America represents a tipping a point for all of us and we see this contribution as an investment in the Urban League’s mission and fuel to help us navigate the turbulent waters that have reached unimaginable heights,” reflected Henry M. Thomas III, President of the Urban League of Springfield. “All citizens deserve adequate access to health and wellness services, the ability to build wealth, and an opportunity for a level playing field across the board.”

The Urban League and MassMutual are no strangers to supporting the citizens of their longtime hometown community of Springfield, dating back to MassMutual’s founding in 1851 and the Urban League’s founding in 1913.

The Urban League’s programming spans across all generations, from youth development to productive aging, health and wellness, economic and workforce development, and advocacy.

Through sweat equity, volunteerism and leadership from MassMutual employees to corporate programming and monetary contributions, MassMutual has shown up to build sustainable change across the US and here in its hometown throughout history when the city has needed help rebuilding, revitalizing and reenergizing. Now MassMutual has stepped up again to build upon its longtime investment in the community and citizens of all ages and abilities in Springfield.

“At MassMutual, we are deeply committed to supporting efforts that establish greater equality, fight injustice, and dismantle systemic racism – and an important part of that is supporting the organizations that have been doing this critical work for a long time,” said Roger Crandall, Chairman, President and CEO of MassMutual. “The Urban League of Springfield is leading the way to a more equitable region through its investments in education and opportunities to improve the economic health and well-being of the African American and Black community. We hope our contribution makes a meaningful impact toward these ongoing efforts, and we encourage others in the business community to follow suit and support ways to bring sustainable, lasting change that will build a better world for all.”

About the Urban League of Springfield

The Urban League of Springfield, Inc., serves the African American community in Greater Springfield by advocating for and providing model services that enhance the academic and social development of young people and families, promoting economic self-sufficiency, and fostering racial inclusion and social justice. For more information, visit, www.ulspringfield.org.

About MassMutual

MassMutual is a leading mutual life insurance company that is run for the benefit of its members and participating policyowners. MassMutual offers a wide range of financial products and services, including life insurance, disability income insurance, long term care insurance, annuities, retirement plans and other employee benefits. For more information, visit www.massmutual.com.