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Ref Union, a California based assigning group focused primarily on the travel basketball market, has gone above the call of duty for their members during this time of cancelled games and lost game fees.

Through their Ref Union Cares initiative, they opened up their union treasury, making funds available as interest-free loans to referees needing help paying essential bills. To date, they have loaned out almost two-thirds of the available funds from their treasury.  Eligible referees can borrow up to $500, interest-free, for the duration of the hiatus. Participating Referees can pay it back through working games within 6 weeks of play resuming.

Ref Union Director Chris Balasinski stated that “while we didn’t ask the specifics of how the loans will used, referees have been very open and honest about their needs. A couple are using it for rent. Another is using it for utilities and other minor expenses until his unemployment check comes in. One official is using the loan towards an online education course, which is absolutely awesome.”

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Because of the number of requests, Ref Union is now running a fundraiser to replenish their treasury and be able to continue their loan program.

“I think this is a program that every high school unit, small college conference, or major referee organization (especially those that host camps) could emulate and initiate. It costs next-to-nothing, takes relatively little time to set up, and if the right precautions are taken, has minimal risks” said Balasinski.

You can learn more about Ref Union HERE.

 

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