ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.–Velera announced it will once again this year be sponsoring two industry-focused races: the Credit Union Cherry Blossom and Credit Union SACTOWN Run.
“Each event aims to bring awareness to the ‘people helping people’ credit union philosophy and promote industry activism” the company said. “The Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile & 5K is a complementary initiative to the public policy advocacy efforts of America’s Credit Unions (ACU). With more than 850 Congressional staffers expected among the thousands of runners, the race elevates awareness of the credit union industry’s shared dedication to service and volunteerism.”
Velera noted both events also support fundraising for the consortium of 170 children’s hospitals through the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN Hospitals), with credit unions being the fifth largest fundraisers for CMN Hospitals nationwide.
25 Years of Support
Velera noted it has helped underwrite Credit Union Cherry Blossom race expenses for nearly 25 years, enabling funds raised to further research and provide medical care for patients at CMN Hospitals.
Since 2002, the Credit Union Cherry Blossom has raised and donated over $11.5 million to CMN. The company has also supported the Credit Union SACTOWN Run where California legislators convene for many years, with the race run raising nearly $2 million for CMN Hospitals since the inception of the Credit Union for Kids and Sacramento Running Association partnership in 2012.
Looking Forward
“Every spring, our team looks forward to coming together with credit union employees, members and industry advocates to strengthen the voice of the credit union movement, while also raising funds to support The Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals that are providing critical medical care and research to children in need,” Merry Pateuk, senior vice president of Industry Engagement, Velera, said in a statement. “We are proud to continue sponsoring these events as Velera, empowering the communities our credit unions serve and cheering on our teams of employees participating in the races on both coasts this year.”
Dates of Events
The Credit Union Cherry Blossom will take place in Washington, D.C. and feature a 5K race on April 5 and a 10-mile race on April 6. The Credit Union SACTOWN Run includes a 5K and 10-mile race, both taking place on April 6.
For info: CherryBlossom.org and RunSra.org/sactown-run.