Bourbon, BBQ & Bands Has Rowdy First Year Success
In its inaugural year, Bourbon, BBQ & Bands raised $600k for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, specifically 25 hospitals in the Cornerstone region.
The Cornerstone League is thrilled to announce the remarkable success of Bourbon, BBQ & Bands, which took place in the heart of the historic stockyards, at the River Ranch Stockyards. This year’s western-themed event drew 300 attendees and raised over $600k to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
The festive atmosphere was alive with the sounds of live country music, the aroma of mouth-watering barbecue, and, of course, the finest bourbons. Attendees donned their best cowboy hats and boots, creating an unforgettable ambiance that brought the spirit of the Wild West to life.
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude for everyone who attended and contributed to this incredible cause,” said Caroline Willard, President/CEO of the Cornerstone League and Chair of Bourbon, BBQ & Bands Executive Committee. “The success of this event demonstrates the generosity and commitment of our community to support those most in need. I’m inspired to see our credit union community continue to cooperate to make a difference.”
The evening featured unforgettable performances from 3x platinum country music artist, Russell Dickerson, and the “Next Women of Country,” Runaway June. A silent auction filled with unique items and trips, and a bourbon tasting experience that showcased a variety of exquisite selections, therapy dogs from Cook Children’s in Fort Worth, and an Afterglow Afterparty contributed to one of the best events happening in the credit union industry this year.
Nick Coleman, Director of CU4Kids says, “For years, credit unions in the Cornerstone region have raised extremely impactful funds for many children’s hospitals. But by elevating their giving through Bourbon, BBQ & Bands, they’ve put their stake in the ground to showcase they are leading and innovating credit unions support to pediatric healthcare.”
Thanks to our sponsors, volunteers, and attendees who helped make this event possible. Their support played a crucial role in achieving this impressive fundraising milestone.
A special thank you to the Executive Committee for Bourbon, BBQ & Bands:
- Bob McKay, President/CEO at Together Credit Union
- Caroline Willard, President/CEO at Cornerstone League (Chairperson)
- Dave Willis, President/CEO at Tinker FCU
- David Frazier, President/CEO at Texans Credit Union
- Frank Shoffner, President/CEO at Credit Union of America
- Luann Schmiedel, President/CEO at Oklahoma’s Credit Union
And to the top sponsors that made this event possible:
- Velera (Top Shelf Sponsor)
- Cornerstone Resources (Top Shelf Sponsor)
- TruStage (A-List Sponsor)
- Origence (A-List Sponsor)
And thank you to all the sponsors that supported the event: Catalyst, CUSG, Open Lending, RSM US LLP, SWBC, Texans Credit Union, Together Credit Union, Visa, American Share Insurance, Envisant, Mastercard, State National, TransFund, Zest AI, Allied Solutions, Performance Trust, American Airlines Credit Union, Communications FCU, Oklahoma’s Credit Union, Tinker FCU, Weokie FCU, ALM First, Bonifi, Corelation, Earnest Consulting Group, Jack Henry, Mid American Credit Union, Oklahoma Central Credit Union, Route 66 Extended Warranty, Family 1st of Texas FCU, Austin Telcoe Credit Union, Texas People Credit Union, University FCU, Credit Union of America, Filene Research Institute, Q2, CRIF Select, NCR Voyix, NCR Atleos.
Willard added, “As I reflect on this year’s achievements, I look forward to the positive changes these funds will bring to our communities. The Bourbon, BBQ & Bands event is already a beloved tradition in the Cornerstone region, and we can’t wait to continue this journey next year. Keep an eye out for more information coming soon.”
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About Cornerstone League:
Cornerstone League is among the nation’s largest regional credit union trade associations, serving approximately 600 credit unions in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. Cornerstone exists to advance the success of credit unions in the region through legislative and grassroots advocacy; regulatory and compliance support; training, educational, and networking opportunities; essential communications related to news and information affecting the credit union industry; and other products and services that establish Cornerstone as the essential partner for credit unions. For more information, visit cornerstoneleague.coop.
About Credit Unions for Kids:
Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids), benefiting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® (CMN Hospitals) in collaboration with America’s Credit Unions and was adopted as a movement and charity of choice. Credit unions with their chapters, leagues, associations, and business partners throughout the U.S. donate to CU4Kids benefiting local children’s hospitals through CMN Hospitals. Whether contributing through ATM contributions, events or making direct donations to CU4Kids, credit unions are raising funds to help children’s hospitals provide the best possible care for kids, providing financial, educational, and emotional support for families fostering economic stability. Together, we can change kids’ health. Together, we can change the future. To learn about CU4Kids, visit CU4Kids.org.
About CMN Hospitals:
Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds for 170 children’s hospitals that support the health of 12 million kids each year across the U.S. and Canada. Donations go to local hospitals to fund critical life-saving treatments and healthcare services, along with innovative research, vital pediatric medical equipment, child life services that put kids’ and families’ minds at ease during difficult hospital stays and financial assistance for families who could not otherwise afford these health services. When we improve the health of all children and allow them the opportunity to reach their full potential, we also improve our communities for years to come. Together, we can change kids’ health. Together, we can change the future. To learn about Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and your local children’s hospital, visit cmnhospitals.org.