Montana's Credit Unions Raised over $25,000 for Shodair Through Football Rivalry Fundraiser

Helena, MT – December 3, 2021— Montana’s Credit Unions (MCU) is thrilled to announce the successful relaunch of their Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids) efforts benefiting Shodair Children’s Hospital (Shodair), Montana’s only Children’s Miracle Network hospital. Credit unions from around the state took part in MCU’s inaugural Cats vs. Griz Icon Fundraiser leading up to the rivalry game on November 19, securing over $25,000 to assist with the advancement of care at Shodair.

Employees at Shodair Children's Hospital and 28 Montana credit unions participated in selling one-dollar team icons to football fans who could proudly support their team when visiting credit union lobbies. This campaign quickly surpassed MCU's initial goal of raising $10,000 through this kickoff event. In total, the fundraiser proved fairly even team loyalties although the Cats eked out the win with 9,774 icons sold in support of their team in comparison to 9,013 for the Griz.

“The Shodair family continues to be grateful to Montana’s credit unions for their ongoing support,” said Craig Aasved, CEO of Shodair Children’s Hospital. “This year’s creative fundraising around the Cat-Griz football game was engaging, brought out university spirit and team rivalry to its fullest, all in the name of helping us with our Building Hope for Montana Families campaign to fund our new hospital. The CU4Kids’ tireless and steady effort is awesome and continues to generate dollars, and we are most sincerely appreciative because it will allow us to continue to meet our mission: To heal, help, and inspire hope.”

This fundraising effort was just the start as MCU is committed to raising $50,000 over the next four years through these engaging campaigns to support Shodair’s Building Hope for Montana Families capital campaign. These funds will assist Shodair in constructing their new hospital in Helena, allowing them to provide access to care for all Montana families in need.

“An essential part of the credit union philosophy is to give back to our community,” said Karen Smith, Senior Vice President & Chief Advocacy Officer for MCU. “Shodair is a beacon of hope for so many families across the state and is a very deserving partner. We have been elated with our credit union and community participation and cannot wait to kick off the new year with more fun initiatives through CU4Kids. With this kind of support, we will reach our goal in no time!”

About Montana’s Credit Unions

Based in Helena, Montana, Montana’s Credit Unions exists to promote and enhance a thriving credit union community. Its various entities support this mission. Montana currently boasts 48 credit unions, with 130branches in communities across the state. Those credit unions currently serve more than 412,639 Montanans - who are members and owners. www.mcun.coop