CU4Kids Receiving CMN Founders Award

Credit unions will be recognized with The Founders Award at Children's Hospitals Week April 8-11 in Orlando, FL.

February 16, 2024

CU4Kids To Receive CMN Founders Award

Credit unions will be recognized with The Founders Award at Children’s Hospitals Week (April 8 – 11) presented by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN Hospitals) at Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort in Orlando, FL. All credit unions are encouraged to come to this event to celebrate their incredible work in raising critical funds through Credit Unions for Kids(CU4Kids) helping local member hospitals change kids’ health to change the future.

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.

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 inthe neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Their parents lived four hours from their local 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.

Credit unions are invited to join Founder’s Week and celebrate the Founders Award recognition at the Walt Disney World Swan and DolphinResort in Orlando, FL April 8-11.

To register, click this link. Use the ‘CMN Hospitals Corporate Partner’ registration type.This link also provides more information about the conference like the agenda, location and more. 

CMN Hospitals is waiving the registration fee for any credit union attendee. Before registering, please contact Nick Coleman for details: ncoleman@cmnhospitals.org.