Championing Community: John Pamer – CU4Kids Champion – the Sactown Run, and the Power of Credit Unions
John Pamer, Chairman of the Sactown Run Sponsorship Committee, has been deeply involved with the race since its inception in 2012. An advocate for both the credit union industry and the financial and physical health of local communities, John’s journey is rooted in personal experiences that have shaped his dedication to raising awareness and funds for Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals.
From the Midwest to California: A Journey in Finance and Leadership
Originally from Ohio, John’s career in finance began soon after he graduated from Ohio State University. A major in finance steered him into the financial industry, where he initially worked as a mortgage banker. By 2001, John had landed his first credit union position as a branch manager. His expertise and leadership quickly shone through, leading him to earn his MBA in 2003. By January 2005, John was appointed CEO of Diablo Valley Credit Union, a position he has held ever since.
“I’ve always believed in the power of the credit union model – it’s all about people helping people,” John shared. For him, a credit union is not just a financial institution; it’s a not-for-profit organization that maximizes value for its members, not shareholders. The cooperative mindset at Diablo Valley Credit Union is something John holds dear, fostering a community of trust and support among its employees and members.
Personal Experience with CMN Hospitals
John’s commitment to community service is also deeply personal. His family has had firsthand experience with CMN Hospitals. His son was treated as an outpatient for a lung infection, and his daughter spent several days in the San Diego hospital as an 11-day-old, battling RSV.
“I can’t stress enough how important the work is that these hospitals do – they treat both the children and their families,” John explained. “These families are going through an unimaginable amount of stress and pain, and it’s critical that we support them, not just in terms of medical care, but emotionally and financially as well.”
From a Personal Challenge to a Community Event
In 2008, John took up running as a personal hobby, unaware that it would later become a powerful force for good. He participated in the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Race, which, at the time, felt like an enormous challenge for him. By 2009, John had successfully completed the Cherry Blossom race in Washington D.C., and during his participation, he had an idea: why not create a similar event in California?
“I was struggling to run a couple of miles, but it became a goal for me to finish that race,” John reflected. “It wasn’t just about completing the race—it was about giving back to a cause that I believed in deeply.”
His conversation with the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Race organizers and the California Credit Union League sparked a series of discussions, and eventually, in partnership with the Sacramento Running Association, the Credit Union Sactown Run was born. The inaugural race took place in 2012, supported by the league’s resources and a shared enthusiasm for helping CMN Hospitals.
The Sactown Run has grown over the years into an event that raises not only significant funds for CMN Hospitals but also raises public awareness about the credit union sector’s commitment to advocacy and community service.
Making the Event Accessible for All
What makes the Sactown Run particularly special is its inclusivity. The race is designed to be accessible to everyone—from frontline staff at credit unions to members of the local community. Whether you are part of a team of 100 or 200 staff members, the event encourages broad participation. It includes various race options, from a 5K to a 1-mile kids’ run, making it a family-friendly event.
John believes that the event isn’t just about fundraising—it’s about fostering an ongoing conversation about the importance of supporting CMN Hospitals and their work. “It’s about getting people involved,” John explained. “Even those who may not have run before might find it difficult to get involved initially, but once they see the race in motion, they feel the energy. It’s alive!”
Why You Should Get Involved
John is an outspoken advocate for those who haven’t yet visited a CMN Hospital to do so. “Take a visit to your local CMN Hospital,” he urged. “What these children and families go through every day is far harder than running a 10-mile race or even a marathon. It will change your perspective. Once you see the impact firsthand, it becomes a compelling reason to get involved.”
The Sactown Run serves as a rallying point for credit union members and the community at large to unite for a common cause—supporting children and families battling life-threatening illnesses.
“It’s not just about running on the course,” John said. “You’re running on the same track that may one day host someone who’s on their way to the Olympics. It’s about being a part of something bigger than yourself.”
Looking to the Future
The Sactown Run has grown into more than just a race—it’s a movement, one that continues to raise awareness, foster collaboration, and make a tangible impact on the lives of families in need. As John looks to the future, he’s excited about expanding the reach of the event, engaging more people, and continuing to support CMN Hospitals and CU4Kids.
John’s passion for community involvement, his belief in the credit union model, and his personal experiences have all shaped his approach to the Sactown Run. Whether you’re a runner or a supporter, there’s an opportunity to make a difference.
