WASHINGTON—America’s Credit Unions and other credit union advocates presented the Children’s Miracle Network with a $506,000 check during the Credit Union Cherry Blossom press conference at the Capitol Visitor Center, as organizers highlighted the industry’s annual fundraising push ahead of the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile & 5K that took place this past weekend.
The race, organized through Credit Union Miracle Day, is backed by more than 100 credit unions, CUSOs and industry partners and benefits Children’s Miracle Network hospitals nationwide. MD|DC Credit Union Association President/CEO John Bratsakis chairs Credit Union Miracle Day, which promotes the credit union movement’s “people helping people” mission through the annual event.
“This race is the perfect example of that,” Catherine Porterfield, VP of member engagement and service at America’s Credit Unions, said in a statement, calling the event a reflection of credit unions’ purpose and commitment to helping children receive care across the 170 Children’s Miracle Network hospitals.
Bratsakis said the run continues to provide both fundraising support and visibility for the industry, while thanking lead sponsors Velera, TruStage and Visa, along with the hundreds of credit union volunteers supporting the event. Congressional FCU, Senate FCU and America’s Credit Unions are among the sponsors of the race.
This year’s event also marks a milestone for the movement, which organizers said has now raised $12.5 million over 24 years as title sponsor of the race. More than 160 members of Congress are serving as honorary race chairs, with more than 1,000 congressional staffers expected to participate, underscoring the event’s strong Capitol Hill ties.
Children’s National Hospital Foundation’s Emma Culberson said the hospital serves 258,000 unique patients.