Credit Unions for Kids is being recognized at Children’s Hospitals Week for its commitment toraising critical donations for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals

April 8-11 at Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort in Orlando, FL, credit unions come together to celebrate receiving this year’s Founders Award at Children’s Hospitals Week presented by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN Hospitals). All credit unions are encouraged to come to this event to rally together around their incredible work in raising critical funds through Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids) helping local member hospitals change kids’ health to change the future. CMN Hospitals honors credit unions supporting their members and the local community.

The Founder's Award is a highly prestigious award provided to a distinguished individual or organizationswho have made amazing contributions to CMN Hospitals. These contributions positively impact and benefit member hospitals, including time, effort, talent, significant personal commitment, or a leadership role. This award is not given out every year – only in special instances. Previous winners include Steve Young (NFL Hall of Famer) and Marriott for being the first corporate partner.

John Bratsakis, CU4Kids Advisory Board Chair and President/CEO of Maryland/DC Credit Union Association says, "Credit unions have spent decades dedicated to improving pediatric healthcare through CU4Kids. While we don't do it for the recognition, I am so proud our efforts are being highlighted through the Founders Award. Together, we have made a transformational impact for millions of kids and families - our members - and we have a lot to celebrate!" 

Credit unions have made huge impacts on kids like Issac and his brother, Easton, who were born at just 26 weeks and spent time in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Their parents lived four hours from theirlocal children’s hospital. Thanks to donations through CU4Kids benefiting CMN Hospitals they were supported with travel expenses and continued to support their sons needed, including therapy for sensory issues, medications and medical equipment.

Each dollar that is raised through CU4Kids helps improve the health of kids and allow them the opportunity to grow to their full potential. And they couldn't do it without the generosity of millions of people in the local community. Through these donations, local member hospitals can provide treatments and support patients desperately need today, so that they can fulfill their potential for tomorrow.

“Accessing pediatric healthcare is necessary, especially in rural areas. Isaac and Easton are brothers from Missouri who spend a lot of time at the hospital, but the closest one to them that provides the necessary care is a four-hour drive away” mentions Caroline Willard, President/CEO Cornerstone Credit Union League and member of CU4Kids Board. “That’s a lot of gas money, time off work for mom, and other expenses. I’m proud of the credit union movement for supporting CMN Hospitals to help millions of kids each year and ensuring everyone has the healthcare they deserve, like Isaac and Easton.”  

Credit unions have been proud partners of CMN Hospitals through CU4Kids since 1996 and have raised more than $200 million benefiting local member hospitals. Member hospitals have used funds to provide both direct financial assistance as well as community-based programs in economic developments. This allows patients to have the needed support while helping put their family’s minds at ease while they are in the hospital.

When we improve the health of all children and allow them the opportunity to reach their full potential, we also improve our communities for years to come. Whether credit unions are contributing through ATM contributions, events or making a direct donation to CU4Kids, they are creating ripple effects felt in local communities for years to come.

We are excited to have credit unions join to celebrate the founders award recognition at Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort in Orlando, FL April 8-11. When we change kids’ health, we change the future – for all of us.

Visit the CU4Kids LinkedIn page to view a video from Marie Osmond announcing the award. And subscribe to the CU4Kids Newsletter by visiting cu4kids.org.

Children's Hospitals Week event information:

• When: Monday-Thursday, April 8-11.  

• Where: Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort in Orlando, FL

• Why: to celebrate the recognition of receiving the Founders Award presented at Children’s Hospitals Week.

• New this year: CU4Kids Summit. Extended session for credit unions to learn philanthropic best practices from each other.

Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids) and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN Hospitals)Facts:

• The 2024 goal is to raise more than $18 million for CMN Hospitals.

• Since 1996, the Credit Unions for Kids has raised more than $200 million benefiting CMN Hospitals.