COLUMBUS, Ohio–During the recent Ohio CU League meeting more than $8,000 was raised for Children’s Miracle Network.
The nearly 300 credit unions across the state of Ohio partner year after year to raise funds for the six Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, which has been a long-time philanthropy of the industry.
“It’s unique that credit unions collaborate to focus on one fundraising goal, it really showcases their cooperative spirit,” said Linda Sandvik of Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus.
The recent silent auction raised $8,000, a 34% increase over 2016. It is held annually in conjunction with the Ohio Credit Union League’s statewide conference in Columbus. Both credit Unions and vendors donate auction items for bidding by attendees.
“Our attendees enjoy the wonderful opportunity to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals statewide,” said Paul Mercer, President of the Ohio Credit Union League.
Likewise, the credit unions held a chocolate bar sale earlier this year which raised $14,480. Thirty-six credit unions joined forces to sell 18,960 chocolate bars to benefit the hospitals. In addition, the fundraiser was a recipient of the Co-Op Miracle Match, providing an additional donation of $10,000.
“The dollars the credit unions raise for us are crucial,” said Kristi Frederick of Mercy Health Children’s Hospital in Toledo. “We appreciate their partnership and unwavering support of our hospital communities.”
In 2016, Credit Unions for Kids in Ohio raised a total of $496,655. This included the funding of the horticultural therapy suite at UH Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital in Cleveland.
“The credit unions come back to us year-after-year with donations to fund our hospital programs,” said Samantha Davison of UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital. “Their collaborative effort is refreshing, and it makes a difference to the lives of patients and families in our hospitals.”