Ascend Federal Credit Union announced today a total contribution of $20,000 to support Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt fundraising efforts. This support comprises two significant components: a $10,000 sponsorship for the "River of Hope" Radiothon that benefits the hospital and an additional $10,000 donation awarded through the inaugural Velera Miracle Momentum Awards.
Ascend was the title sponsor of the “River of Hope” Radiothon on 107.5 The River, held Dec. 12-13 at Seacrest Studios at Monroe Carell. As part of its sponsorship, Ascend donated $10,000 to support the Radiothon, an annual event that raises funds for Monroe Carell, Nashville’s local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital®.
Separately, Monroe Carell was selected as a recipient of the Velera Miracle
Momentum Award. This $10,000 award, made on behalf of Ascend Federal Credit
Union, was part of a nationwide initiative that received nearly 500 submissions
for 68 different Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals across the country.
“Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at
Vanderbilt stands as a source of inspiration and healing for families across
Tennessee," said Ascend President and CEO, Matt Jernigan. “Their
unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care truly embodies the spirit
of compassion. We are honored to support their mission through both the “River
of Hope” Radiothon and the Velera Miracle Momentum Award, knowing that every
contribution helps advance groundbreaking research and brings comfort to young
patients during their most challenging moments."
Monroe Carell is one of the nation's leading children's
hospitals, treating and helping to prevent a full range of pediatric health
issues from colds and broken bones to complex heart diseases and cancer. In
2024, Monroe Carell was again named among the nation’s “Best Children’s
Hospitals” for the 18th consecutive year by U.S. News & World Report.
Additionally, the hospital earned the distinction as the No. 1 pediatric
hospital in Tennessee and shares first place in the Southeast region for the
fourth consecutive year. Monroe Carell, a nonprofit organization, opened in
2004, expanded its physical space in 2012, and in 2016 began construction to
add four new floors encompassing 160,000 total sq. ft. The new expansion helps
to advance the size and scope of the hospital's mission.
“We are so grateful to Ascend Federal
Credit Union for its longstanding commitment to support the children and
families at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt,” said Meg
Rush, MD, MMHC, President of Monroe Carell. “Our generous community supporters
like Ascend make it possible to advance our mission of discovery research,
world-class training and compassionate, expert care. This continued support
will help us continue to personalize pediatric health care for countless
children in our region and beyond.”
Ascend's support for Monroe Carell is part of a
long-standing relationship. In 2023, Ascend donated $200,000 to support
expanding inpatient pediatric rehabilitation services at Monroe Carell. Additionally,
the credit union has been a presenting sponsor of the "River of Hope
Radiothon" for over 10 years, and Jernigan currently serves on the Monroe
Carell Advisory Board. In total, Ascend has given more than $400,000 in
donations and fundraising event sponsorships to support Monroe Carell since 2013.
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