CUNA Mutual Group’s Tim McAdow shares his experience running the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Run.
On April 8, I was one of several who represented CUNA Mutual Group at the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Run. We joined thousands of runners from coast-to-coast participating in credit union road races to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
Since 2009, CUNA Mutual Group has supported the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals by participating in the Credit Union SACTOWN Run in Sacramento, California and the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Run in Washington, D.C. We send teams of employees to join the army of credit union movement road warriors to show our spirit in solidarity.
It was a rewarding time in Washington D.C. I had the opportunity to spend three days with the organizing committee, credit union leaders and volunteers. Holding an event of this magnitude isn’t easy, and I was inspired by the passion and energy that goes into the preparation.
The opportunity to visit the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital in Washington D.C. was a remarkable experience – a chance to see the reality that many families face and the difference we can make with our financial support. I’ve had friends and family directly benefit from the research and special work that goes on in Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, so this event held a special place in my heart.
The weekend began with the children’s race on Saturday. The threat of a snowstorm didn’t deter kids of all ages from getting out and running to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Many of the kids were from families that have benefited from the hospitals and the financial support provided by credit unions and their members. I met one family where both parents had been running the 10 mile race for years, and now their children were participating in the kid’s race. With credit union support, those kids may someday run the 10 miler themselves!
On Sunday, I joined almost 20,000 runners that tackled a clear but cold start and finished either a 10 mile or 5K course. This race lived up to its name with the cherry blossoms in full bloom on race day.
It was one of the quickest races I’ve ever completed. Not because of a lightning fast pace but rather the perspective that it provided. My mind raced as I ran through the blossoms, around monuments and reflected on the collective impact this group has in communities across the country.
People Helping People
Participating in this race was just another day in the life of hundreds of credit union advocates. It was a chance to pull together with like-minded folks, helping provide hope to families when they need it most. At the center of CUNA Mutual Group’s cooperative purpose is helping people. I can’t think of a better way to live our purpose than by supporting the Children’s Miracle Network and the families they serve. Together, thanks to 70 credit unions and other key sponsors, we enabled a $380,000 donation!
Want to get involved? It’s not too late. Your support helps provide 32 million patient visits for the 10 million kids served by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals every year. Learn more and donate today. Your support is greatly appreciated, and 100 percent of the funds donated will go to local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible. Together we can make a difference.
Tim McAdow is a vice president at CUNA Mutual Group, the leading provider of insurance and financial services to credit unions and their members. In his role, Tim is responsible for bringing solutions to life for credit union and business customers. Contact him at tim.mcadow@cunamutual.com.
CUNA Mutual Group is the marketing name for CUNA Mutual Holding Company, a mutual insurance holding company, its subsidiaries and affiliates. Corporate headquarters are located in Madison, Wis.
