Bourbon, BBQ & Bands Has Rowdy First Year Success
In its inaugural year, Bourbon, BBQ & Bands raised $600k for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, specifically 25 hospitals in the Cornerstone region.
The Cornerstone League is thrilled to announce the remarkable success of Bourbon, BBQ & Bands, which took place in the heart of the historic stockyards, at the River Ranch Stockyards. This year’s western-themed event drew 300 attendees and raised over $600k to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
The festive atmosphere was alive with the sounds of live country music, the aroma of mouth-watering barbecue, and, of course, the finest bourbons. Attendees donned their best cowboy hats and boots, creating an unforgettable ambiance that brought the spirit of the Wild West to life.
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude for everyone who attended and contributed to this incredible cause,” said Caroline Willard, President/CEO of the Cornerstone League and Chair of Bourbon, BBQ & Bands Executive Committee. “The success of this event demonstrates the generosity and commitment of our community to support those most in need. I’m inspired to see our credit union community continue to cooperate to make a difference.”
The evening featured unforgettable performances from 3x platinum country music artist, Russell Dickerson, and the “Next Women of Country,” Runaway June. A silent auction filled with unique items and trips, and a bourbon tasting experience that showcased a variety of exquisite selections, therapy dogs from Cook Children’s in Fort Worth, and an Afterglow Afterparty contributed to one of the best events happening in the credit union industry this year.
Nick Coleman, Director of CU4Kids says, “For years, credit unions in the Cornerstone region have raised extremely impactful funds for many children’s hospitals. But by elevating their giving through Bourbon, BBQ & Bands, they’ve put their stake in the ground to showcase they are leading and innovating credit unions support to pediatric healthcare.”
Thanks to our sponsors, volunteers, and attendees who helped make this event possible. Their support played a crucial role in achieving this impressive fundraising milestone.
A special thank you to the Executive Committee for Bourbon, BBQ & Bands:
Bob McKay, President/CEO at Together Credit Union
Caroline Willard, President/CEO at Cornerstone League (Chairperson)
Dave Willis, President/CEO at Tinker FCU
David Frazier, President/CEO at Texans Credit Union
Frank Shoffner, President/CEO at Credit Union of America
Luann Schmiedel, President/CEO at Oklahoma’s Credit Union
And to the top sponsors that made this event possible:
Velera (Top Shelf Sponsor)
Cornerstone Resources (Top Shelf Sponsor)
TruStage (A-List Sponsor)
Origence (A-List Sponsor)
And thank you to all the sponsors that supported the event: Catalyst, CUSG, Open Lending, RSM US LLP, SWBC, Texans Credit Union, Together Credit Union, Visa, American Share Insurance, Envisant, Mastercard, State National, TransFund, Zest AI, Allied Solutions, Performance Trust, American Airlines Credit Union, Communications FCU, Oklahoma’s Credit Union, Tinker FCU, Weokie FCU, ALM First, Bonifi, Corelation, Earnest Consulting Group, Jack Henry, Mid American Credit Union, Oklahoma Central Credit Union, Route 66 Extended Warranty, Family 1st of Texas FCU, Austin Telcoe Credit Union, Texas People Credit Union, University FCU, Credit Union of America, Filene Research Institute, Q2, CRIF Select, NCR Voyix, NCR Atleos.
Willard added, “As I reflect on this year’s achievements, I look forward to the positive changes these funds will bring to our communities. The Bourbon, BBQ & Bands event is already a beloved tradition in the Cornerstone region, and we can’t wait to continue this journey next year. Keep an eye out for more information coming soon.”