2025 has been a record-setting year for Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids) benefiting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Across the U.S., our signature fundraising events—from golf tournaments and auctions to new experiential gatherings—have seen remarkable increases in participation and dollars raised for local children's hospitals.
As we close out this historic year, it’s worth pausing to celebrate the momentum credit unions have built together—and to unpack why this growth is happening. Behind every fundraising total is a story of innovation, collaboration, and a renewed sense of purpose that’s redefining what it means to give through our movement.
1. Stronger collaboration across the movement
CU4Kids was founded on the belief that credit unions are stronger together—and that spirit has never been more evident. Across the country, regional events are flourishing because credit unions and leagues are collaborating in new and meaningful ways.
- Take the CU4Kids Wine Auction in California, our highest-grossing and one of the longest-running events. Nearly 100 credit unions and industry partners come together each year, guided by an executive committee of over 30 California and Nevada credit union CEOs. Each year, two new Co-Chairs are selected to lead—a model that sustains engagement, develops new leaders, and strengthens commitment.
- Or look to the GoWest MAXX Night of Wonder, which raised an incredible $1.53 million this fall. The event features a creative auction tradition: a “paddle raise” for red hero wagons benefiting all 11 hospitals in the region. Watching bids climb from $10,000 to $75,000—and then witnessing credit union CEOs join forces to combine gifts for each children’s hospital—was a moment that perfectly embodied our cooperative difference.
When credit unions collaborate, competition turns into collective impact. When one credit union wins, the entire community benefits.
2. A shift from “events” to “experiences”
One of the biggest drivers of this year’s success has been a mindset shift. Credit unions are no longer just hosting fundraising events—they’re curating experiences that create emotional connection and community pride.
Consider a few standouts from this year:
- A Capital Affair continues to set the bar for experiential fundraising by rotating to world-class venues annually. Last year, guests dined beside the U.S. Constitution at the National Archives; past years featured VIP access to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and other premier venues. This year, attendees will gather at the National Museum of Women in the Arts—an inspiring lead-in to the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile & 5K itself, which is an unforgettable experience in its own right.
- Teachers Federal Credit Union has perfected the art of personalization through its annual golf event, which raised an impressive $924,000 in just its third year. From choosing a highly sought-after destination in the Hamptons to hosting guests in authentic seaside cottages, every detail is designed for connection and comfort. Each attendee is even provided a dedicated staff liaison to ensure a seamless experience before, during, and after the event—a level of hospitality that truly sets this event apart.
- Bourbon, BBQ & Bands might take the prize for the most unique CU4Kids event. Held in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards, guests swap tuxedos for cowboy boots and enjoy a night of great food, whiskey, and country music. With past performers including Russell Dickerson, Hunter Hayes, and Runaway June, it’s a masterclass in authenticity and fun.
- Pints for Purpose, now in its second year, raised $80,000—all while embracing Portland’s famous quirkiness. The event featured a high school rock band, alpacas mingling through the crowd, and a unicyclist playing bagpipes. It’s proof that leaning into your community’s unique culture (#KeepPortlandWeird) can create unforgettable engagement and results.
These events are no longer just fundraisers—they’re moments that celebrate community, impact, and shared purpose. That shift has led to higher attendance, stronger sponsorships, and a deeper sense of pride across the movement.
3. Strategic alignment with credit union values
Another key to this year's success has been alignment. More credit unions are seeing CU4Kids not just as philanthropy, but as a strategic expression of their mission to improve financial well-being and community health.
When fundraising is rooted in purpose—not just obligation—it becomes easier to engage staff, tell authentic stories, and sustain momentum.
- The NW Golf Classic is a great example. Proceeds from the tournament (which was $2.1m in 2025—a 40% YOY increase!) are funding a new hybrid operating suite at OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in Portland, Oregon. Credit unions committed to raising $5 million over five years—a tangible, local goal their employees, members, and communities can rally behind.
- At Desert Financial Credit Union, alignment is everything. The organization raised over $2 million for Children’s Miracle Network and Phoenix Children’s Hospital last year, anchored by a massive golf tournament. But what makes their impact so powerful is the connection to their brand. As a credit union founded to serve educators, Desert Financial directs its support to the One Darn Cool School program—ensuring no child undergoing treatment falls behind in class.
This kind of strategic alignment doesn’t just fundraise; it embeds giving into culture.
4. Investing in storytelling
Finally, credit unions are professionalizing their approach—upgrading auction technology, leveraging digital giving tools, and focusing deeply on storytelling.
- At The League’s Night of Miracles Gala, organizers put storytelling at the heart of the event by centering it around a young patient, Maya, treated at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. They celebrated her story before the event by sending her to Disney World, throwing her a princess-themed birthday party, and sharing her photos and story across all platforms. During the event, they gave Maya the stage to share her journey firsthand. That emotional connection transformed the event from impressive to unforgettable.
- Meanwhile, In the Cellar brings together credit union leaders and supporters for a one-of-a-kind event where purpose and connection take center stage. The day begins with the CEO Roundtable, a candid exchange of ideas about mental health, leadership, collaboration, and the heart of our movement. The evening is reserved for guests to gather for an extraordinary fundraising experience within the Great Lakes states, showcasing the heart of our country. This black-tie event has taken place at Ford's Museum of American Innovation (MI), Chicago's Grand Station (IL), and the Harley-Davidson Museum (WI), and in 2026, heading to Indianapolis on Friday, September 18. In just three years, attendees have raised over $3 million in critical funds to support children’s hospitals and shine a light on the urgent need for pediatric mental health care. It’s not just an event, it’s a reminder that when we lead with care and bravery, we change lives.
When donors see the faces and stories behind their impact, generosity grows.
Looking ahead
The success we’ve seen this year is no accident—it’s the result of years of collaboration, creativity, and commitment from credit unions across the country. As we look ahead to 2026, our challenge is to keep the momentum going by continuing to innovate, share what works, and bring new voices into the movement.
CU4Kids has always been more than a fundraising program. It’s a reflection of who we are as an industry—people helping people, with compassion at the center.
And if 2025 has shown us anything, it’s that when credit unions rally around a shared purpose, incredible things happen for kids, families, and communities.
That’s a story worth continuing.
Coming in 2026
CU4Kids will launch a new webinar series focused on event fundraising best practices—kicking off in Q1 with insights on how to maximize impact through golf events. Stay tuned for details and join us to learn, share, and grow together.
