Fort Worth, TX (November 4, 2025) |
The second annual Bourbon, BBQ & Bands event, hosted by Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids) and Cornerstone League at the iconic River Ranch Stockyards in Fort Worth, Texas, brought together 300 credit union leaders, partners, and community supporters for an unforgettable night of live music, southern flavors, and giving back. Together, they raised$707,000 to benefit 26 Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® (CMN Hospitals) across Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas.
The evening celebrated the credit union movement’s commitment to improving the lives of children and families in local communities. Guests enjoyed an energetic performance from Grammy-nominated artist Hunter Hayes, along with BBQ favorites, curated bourbon tastings, and inspiring moments from patients and partners who make this mission possible.
Cornerstone League President & CEO Caroline Willard said the event showcased the generous spirit of the credit union movement.
“Every dollar raised represents a child’s chance to heal, a family’s moment of hope, and a community coming together for something bigger than ourselves,” said Willard, who is also chair of the Bourbon, BBQ & Bands executive committee, and a CU4Kids advisory board member. “That’s the heart of the credit union movement and I’m proud of how our members, partners, and donors showed up for the community tonight.”
One of the highlights of the night was hearing from Cook Children’s patient ambassador, Marlee, whose strength and story brought the crowd to their feet. Guests also had a chance to meet Cook Children’s therapy dogs, a beloved return from last year’s inaugural event, spreading smiles throughout the evening.
The event’s success was made possible through the generous support of top sponsors including Visa, Cornerstone Resources, Velera, and TruStage.
“The Bourbon, BBQ & Bands event is truly inspiring, as it demonstrates the credit union industry’s collective effort to support pediatric healthcare in a powerful way. Meeting the Champion Family highlighted the significant impact our contributions have on each child and their family,” said David Frazier, a member of the event’s executive committee and President & CEO of Texas Credit Union. “I am proud of the event’s growth since its inaugural year and look forward to establishing it as a lasting tradition.”
The 2025 Bourbon, BBQ & Bands executive committee included:
- Bob McKay, President & CEO at Together Credit union
- David Frazier, President & CEO at Texans Credit Union
- Chet Kimmell, President & CEO at Neighborhood Credit Union
- Rick Nichols, President & CEO at Multipli Credit Union
- Deonee Christensen, President & CEO at Mazuma Credit Union
- Jeff Carpenter, President & CEO at WEOKIE Credit Union
- Dave Willis, President & CEO at Tinker Federal Credit Union
All proceeds from the event support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, helping ensure that every child has access to the best care possible, no matter life’s circumstances.
To learn more about Credit Unions for Kids or to get involved, visit CU4Kids.org.