Ascend Federal Credit Union Contributes $20,000 to Support Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt Fundraising Efforts
Franklin, Tenn., January 16, 2025 – Ascend Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in Middle Tennessee, 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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