More than 1,000 Runners Skip Refunds and Donate to the Kids
Their race was canceled but not their giving spirit.
Credit Union Cherry Blossom Run organizers decided to cancel the annual event due to COVID-19 concerns. The organizers gave participants the option of getting their race fees refunded or donating these fees to Children’s National Hospital. Incredibly, nearly 1,300 runners donated their fees. These donated fees equaled $62,066 for the kids at Children’s National.
Overall, the Cherry Blossom Run raised more than $400,000 for Children’s National in 2020. A record 71 credit unions and leagues sponsored the event this year.
“While we were all disappointed that the race was canceled, together we are still making a significant impact in our communities and in the lives of children treated at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals,” said John Bratsakis, chair, Credit Union Miracle Day. “The funds raised directly benefit CMN Hospitals in local communities, helping to fund research, treatment, medical equipment and the challenges brought on by COVID-19. The unique, collaborative spirit of the credit union movement makes a real difference in communities, particularly during this time of uncertainty and disruption. We look forward to the 2021 Cherry Blossom Credit Union Ten Mile Run which will mark our 20th year of title sponsorship.”
Credit unions have sponsored the Cherry Blossom Run for 19 years. These credit unions continue to choose Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals as the race’s charitable partner. With credit unions’ support, the Cherry Blossom Run has raised nearly $10 million for CMN Hospitals.
“We would like to carry on the legacy of enabling Credit Union Miracle Day to make a sizeable contribution to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, even though the annual tradition of the race itself will be interrupted this year,” says Phil Stewart, event director, Cherry Blossom Run.
“CMN Hospitals is so proud of our partnership with the credit union industry,” said Nick Coleman, director, Corporate Partnerships, CMN Hospitals. “What race organizers have done despite the cancellation is emblematic of the credit union industry’s desire to help the kids, even in hard times.”
If you would like to make a general donation or learn more about the Cherry Blossom Run, click here.