Retirees group introduces multi-year membership

The Barbados Association of Retired Persons (BARP) has announced the launch of a multi-year membership option, marking a significant change in its membership structure as part of its 30th anniversary celebrations.

The new scheme, set to begin on Monday, will allow people aged 40 and over to join or renew their membership for extended periods.

BARP President Marilyn Rice-Bowen unveiled the initiative during a Christmas event for stakeholders, partners, and supporters at Wine World in Rockley, Christ Church last month. The move comes as the pensioners’ group prepares for a year-long celebration of its three-decade milestone.

“Three decades is a milestone for any organisation,” she said. “To be able to meet the needs of members amidst economic and social changes both local and global is a testament to the vision and hard work of our founders back in 1995.”

CEO Steve Alleyne provided details of the new membership structure: “The three-year membership fee is $195 to join and $185 to renew while the two-year membership is $135 to join and $125 to renew.” The annual membership option would remain available, he said, with fees set at $75 for new members and a renewal fee of $65 if the card expired under three months, or $75 if expired for more than three months.

The multi-year membership is currently only available at the BARP headquarters in Marine Gardens, Hastings, Christ Church, or through its online portal at barpmember.com.

Rice-Bowen also hinted at an upcoming calendar of events to commemorate the 30th anniversary, including enhancements to popular activities such as the Freedom Bus Ride on October 24 and the annual Christmas concert, “Bringin’ It Home with BARP”.

(PR/BT)