Credit Union Miracle Day Empowers Families to Thrive

In our Corporate Partner Spotlight, we interview corporate leaders about what inspires them to serve as advocates and ambassadors for children's health. This month, we spoke with Leigh Philibosian, executive director of Credit Union Miracle Day.

Credit Union Miracle Day has raised more than $12.5 million for Children's Miracle Network since it became the title sponsor of the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile & 5K in 2002.

How has Credit Union Miracle Day grown in support for Children's National Hospital over the years?

We started with an idea for local credit unions to partner with the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile & 5K to raise some money for Children's National. Over time, we've grown to include credit unions and business partners across the country.

Additionally, the runners have expanded our impact. We began encouraging participants to donate or fundraise for Children's Miracle Network, benefiting the hospitals where our sponsors and runners reside. Last year, we supported children's hospitals across 45 states and Washington, D.C.

How do the missions of local credit unions and Children's National closely align to create such a strong partnership?

We are all in the business of helping people. When a serious health challenge impacts a family, financial strain often follows, even beyond the cost of treatment. There can be significant transportation costs getting back and forth to appointments. Sometimes a parent must cut back on their work hours to care for their child or even stop working altogether.

Credit unions address their members' financial wellness by finding solutions that support families during tough times. That is why our missions align so closely. Local credit unions and Children's National are focused on improving people's lives.

What is the most rewarding part of working with Children's National?

It is incredibly rewarding to know that our fundraising efforts directly help kids and their families get the support they need. Children's National plays such a vital role in serving our community. We are honored to help ensure families can continue to count on such outstanding care.

What is the greatest lesson you have learned from your time partnering with the hospital?

We can easily get caught up in the numbers of patients served, new treatments developed or other statistics of care, which are obviously so important. But I am always struck by the Children's National team's thoughtfulness and attention to making the hospital a place that isn’t scary or intimidating to kids. Prioritizing a child's perspective has a profound impact on their experience and ultimately on their health outcomes and overall well-being.