Savvy Saving: A Card That Helps You, Local Businesses, and the Community

In the heart of Michigan, a unique card is making waves, offering savings, supporting local businesses, and giving back to the community. The Great Lakes Bay Dining & Entertainment Card, or GLB card, is the brainchild of Ashley and Brent Mason, who launched it in 2022. Brent's previous venture, Golf Passbook Michigan, inspired this new project, which now extends beyond golf courses to include over 185 restaurants, entertainment venues, retailers, and professional services in the Great Lakes Bay Region. The Masons, both locals, have a soft spot for veterans and their community. They designed the GLB card to be a win-win-win situation: cardholders save money, local businesses gain customers, and a portion of each card sold goes to local non-profits. These include veterans' food pantries, rescue missions, soup kitchens, and even organizations fighting against substance abuse. For just $30 a year, cardholders can enjoy discounts ranging from 10 to 20% at participating businesses. The savings might seem small at first, but they add up. One customer tracked his savings and found he had saved around $1, 500 in a year! Plus, by using the card, he was also supporting local businesses and giving back to the community. The GLB card is not just about individual savings; it's also about community impact. The Masons aim to sell 1, 000 cards before Christmas, which would allow them to donate a total of $10, 000 to local rescue missions and food pantries. Businesses can join the program at any time, with no upfront costs. They simply offer a discount to cardholders, and Ashley Mason promotes them on the GLB card's Facebook page. Schools can also get involved through fundraising opportunities. They can sell the cards on a consignment basis, keeping only the ones sold and returning the rest. Plus, they get to choose which charity receives a portion of the sales. It's a simple way for schools to raise funds while also supporting their community. The GLB card is more than just a discount card. It's a tool for community building, a way to support local businesses, and a means to give back to those in need. It's a testament to the power of community and the impact that can be made when people come together for a common cause.