INDIANAPOLIS — In the Cellar raised $1.24 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals at its fourth annual event, held Sept. 18 at the Indiana Roof Ballroom.
The fundraiser focuses on mental health resources for children and families. The latest total brings its fundraising to more than $4.5 million over four years, according to In the Cellar.
In the Cellar is an annual fundraiser that brings credit union leaders, business partners and supporters together to raise money for Children’s Miracle Network hospitals through the Credit Unions for Kids initiative. Its focus is children’s mental health resources.
Tansley Stearns, the organization’s board chair and president and CEO of orsa credit union, spoke about her own mental health experiences and urged attendees to give. Speaking openly about personal challenges, she said, might help someone else seek support.
“Give boldly. Give like a kid’s future depends on it, because for some families, it does,” Stearns said.
Valentine’s Heart of the Movement Award Presented
The event also honored Greg Mitchell with its 2026 Valentine’s Heart of the Movement Award, which recognizes service and generosity among credit union leaders. The award is named for its first recipient, Mike Valentine.
Organizers said the fifth annual event will be held Sept. 17, 2027, at The Department at Hudson’s in Detroit. Carson Molle will return as emcee, while April Clobes and Chrissy Siders will serve as Michigan ambassadors.
Several organizations have made multiyear commitments to the fundraiser, including Velera, SRM, BCU, Origence, Visa, TruStage and Michigan State University Federal Credit Union, In the Cellar said.
