In the Cellar Brings Mental Health to the Forefront Raising $1.18 Million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals

In the Cellar’s third year, it has now surpassed $3.2 million, with a record-breaking night at Milwaukee’s Harley Davidson Museum.

In the Cellar, an annual black-tie fundraiser blending world-class hospitality with a mission for healing, announced today that its 2025 event raised an astounding $1,181,990 in support of Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals. With this year’s achievement, the event has now raised a total of $3.2 million in just three years, significantly expanding access to mental health resources for children and families.

“This year’s In the Cellar was nothing short of extraordinary. The dollars raised, combined with the growing conversation around a topic that impacts so many and is often left in the shadows, demonstrate the impact we can create when we come together with purpose,” said Tansley Stearns, Board Chair of In the Cellar. “Every gift will help ensure children and their families receive the care and mental health support they need and deserve.”

The evening brought together credit union leaders, business partners, and philanthropists for an unforgettable celebration of connection and giving. Guests enjoyed fine dining, wine, and fellowship while raising critical funds for CMN Hospitals’ life-changing mental health programs.

In a highlight of the evening, In the Cellar presented the Valentine’s Heart of the Movement Award to Mike Valentine, President & CEO of BCU (IL), honoring his steadfast commitment to compassion, generosity, and leadership across the credit union movement. The award, named in recognition of Mike’s exemplary leadership and his commitment to highlighting the humanity at the heart of the event, celebrates individuals whose vision and service elevate others.

“I am deeply humbled to receive the Valentine Heart of the Movement Award,” said Valentine. “This honor isn’t about me—it’s about the collective spirit of credit unions, partners, and communities who come together to make an impact far bigger than any one of us. That’s what fills my heart, and why nights like In the Cellar matter so much. I’m also thrilled to be part of the selection committee for next year’s recipient so that we keep the momentum building.”

Looking ahead, the fourth edition of In the Cellar will take place on Friday, September 18, 2026, in Indianapolis, IN. Several partners have already confirmed their early support for the event, including Visa, Envisant, Community Financial Credit Union, BCU, Savana, Everwise Credit Union, Financial Plus Credit Union (MI), SRM, Modern Executive Solutions, and a special acknowledgment to Velera for committing as a multi-year sponsor. And, by the time you read this, there will be more organizations committed to this cause. For sponsorship opportunities or to participate in the 2026 event, please visit www.inthecellar.org or contact Tansley Stearns, board chair of In the Cellar, directly at tansley@cfcu.org.

As part of its mental health focus, In the Cellar also invited attendees to take action beyond fundraising, encouraging them to reach out to friends, colleagues, or loved ones they may not have connected with recently. This simple act of checking in echoes the event’s theme: small gestures can make a big impact.

A short video capturing highlights and gratitude from the evening can be viewed here.