On Wednesday, April 10th, the Credit Unions for Kids National Advisory Board accepted the Founders Award on behalf of the credit union industry.

Prestigious Founders Award

The Founder’s Award is a highly prestigious award provided to a distinguished individual or organizations who 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. This year marked the 7th time the award has been given out.

CU4Kids Advisory Board Accepts Founders Award

The Credit Unions for Kids National Advisory Board accepted the award on behalf of the credit union industry. Board Members are: Brad Miller (AACUL), Caroline Willard (Cornerstone League), Chris Roe (TruStage), Diana Dykstra (CA/NV Credit Union Leagues), Darren Williams (Wescom Credit Union), Ron Amstutz (Desert Financial Credit Union), and Samantha Paxson. Bill Cheney (SchoolsFirst FCU) is on CMN Hospitals Board of Trustees and was also on stage to accept the award.

John Bratsakis (MDDCCUA), is the Chairman of the Board and shared the acceptance remarks. John spoke about the cooperative difference that are credit unions, how credit unions are leaders in creating financially healthy communities, and how a partnership with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has allowed the industry to excel with both of those.

John also 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 Came to Celebrate

CMN Hospitals is grateful for the many other credit union representatives that joined us at Children’s Hospitals Week:

Aimee Berg, Unitus Community Credit Union; Alicia Kight, Associated Credit Union; Ashlee Jaconsob Dunbar, Unitus Community Credit Union; Beth Schnabel, Community Financial Credit Union; Caitlin Brama, Farm Credit Employees FCU; Chelsea Eddington, Fibre Credit Union; Erin Olinghouse, OnPoint Community Credit Union; Greg Mitchell, First Tech FCU; Jeff Meshey, Desert Financial Credit Union; Joe Franklin, PSCU/Co-op Solutions; Josh DeTar, Tyfone; Josie Ellis, League of Southeastern Credit Unions; Lea Ammerman, Michigan State University FCU; Leigh Philibosian, Credit Union Miracle Day and Maryland DC Credit Union Association; Lexy Strong, GoWest Credit Union Association; Magali Amezquita, Origence; Nav Khanna, First City Credit Union; Neah LaFuente, Advantis Credit Union; Prisca Walters, Associated Credit Union; Seth Schaefer, Rivermark Community Credit Union; Tom Kane, Illinois Credit Union League; Tony Boutelle, Origence; Troy Stang, GoWest Credit Union Association

Credit Unions Change Kids Health to Change The Future

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.

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.

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

• The 2024 goal is to raise $19 million for CMN Hospitals.

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