FORT WORTH, Texas–The second annual Bourbon, BBQ & Bands event hosted by Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids) and the Cornerstone League at the iconic River Ranch Stockyards in Fort Worth raised more than $707,000 to benefit 26 Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals across Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas.
Approximately 300 credit union leaders, partners, and community supporters participated in the event.
“The evening celebrated the credit union movement’s commitment to improving the lives of children and families in local communities,” organizers said. “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.”
A ’Chance to Heal’
“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,” Cornerstone League President & CEO Caroline Willard, said in a statement. Willars 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.”
Touching Story Shared
Organizers said 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.”
Sponsors of the event included 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.
Exec Committee Members
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
