The Montana Athletic Club is doing their part to lend a hand to those that have recently lost their job by offering free membership to current members and non-members.

“In times like this where the economy is bad, especially in a small town like Bigfork, if we all band together then we can come out of this stronger,” said Doug Mahlum, CEO of the MAC.

Current MAC members, who are primary providers for their family and have lost their jobs since December 2008 are eligible for up to four months of free membership for themselves and their family. Non-members are eligible for up to two months of free membership for themselves and their qualifying family members.

“Losing your job is very stressful and if we can provide a place where you can get away from that stress, then we want to help,” Mahlum said. “We’ve been here in Bigfork for 15 years. One of the reasons we are here is because of the community and if they’re in trouble we’d like to help them out.

“There are a lot of people who have been members for a long time that don’t use our facility, but stay members to support the MAC. Now we want to give back and support the community,” he said.

Although there is no obligation to stay a member of the MAC after the free-period is over, there are a few stipulations. Unemployment and primary provider status must be verified by the MAC. Also, if a member obtains a job, the club needs to be notified so that they may offer the program to another person in need.

“I’m relying on the honesty and goodness of people that they will tell us if they get a job,” Mahlum said.

Anyone interested in this program should contact membership coordinators Nancy, Laura or Angela at the MAC, 837-2582.