In the Cellar’s Second Year Surpasses the $925K Raised in 2023, with a Record-Breaking Night at Chicago’s Union Station.

In a spectacular display of community spirit and generosity, the second annual In the Cellar, held at Chicago’s historic Union Station, raised over $1,108,020 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. The event took place on Friday, September 20th, and brought together over 400 credit union industry leaders dedicated to improving the lives of children.

The evening was filled with live entertainment and inspiring stories from families and healthcare professionals whose lives have been transformed through the care provided by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. The Great Lakes area credit unions welcomed system partners, state leagues, technology partners, guests and supporters of the event, who are thoughtfully invested in eliminating the stigma, raise awareness, and provide resources to the medical professionals across the nation. In its first two events, In the Cellar has raised a total of $2,033,255.

“The heart of credit unions beats strong. Collaboration in action means more lives are changed. In the Cellar demonstrates that the impossible can become possible when we come together aligned in our values, driven by purpose,” said Tansley Stearns, president & ceo at Community Financial Credit Union and Chair of In the Cellar. “The funds raised will make an impact in providing life-saving treatments and specialized care for children facing serious health challenges, especially related to mental health. This event highlights why we must challenge ourselves to dream boldly and put those dreams into motion. Huzzah!”

Highlights of the evening included a live auction featuring exclusive experiences and items, including signed sports memorabilia, paintings by Tony Roko, luxury vacations, and dining experiences, with all proceeds going directly to support vital mental health services and programs for children nationwide. Guests also heard a story of difficult, yet resilient, times from Amelia, a patient at Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago, who emphasized the importance of continued funding and awareness for child mental health solutions.

“Thank you to everyone who attended, donated, and volunteered,” said Nick Coleman, Director of Credit Unions for Kids. “Your support not only helps us provide essential medical care to children but also brings hope and healing to families in need.”

A special thank you to the Board of Directors for In the Cellar:

• Tansley Stearns, president/ceo at Community Financial Credit Union (Chair)

• Tom Kane, President/CEO of Envisant and Illinois Credit Union League (Vice Chair)

• Elry Armaza, chief of staff at Community Financial Credit Union (Secretary)

• Beth Schnabel, director of strategic events at Community Financial Credit Union (Treasurer)

• Brad Bergmooser, President/CEO at Financial Plus Credit Union in Michigan

• Laurie Butz, President/CEO at Capital Credit Union

• Jason Osterhage, President/CEO at Everwise Credit Union

• And Associate Board Member, Tammy Williams, VP of Culture and Learning/Development at Capital Credit Union

And to the top sponsors that made this event possible:

• TruStage (Founding Sponsor)

• Envisant (Presenting Sponsor)

• Velera (Presenting Sponsor)

• Visa (Title Sponsor)

• Community Financial Credit Union (Title Sponsor)