Credit union leaders collaborated to raise $1.2 million for 11 Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals during the “The Totally Awesome CU4Kids Auction & 80’s Prom Bash” held in Spokane Oct. 4, as part of the GoWest Credit Union Association's annual MAXX Convention. Attendees represent credit unions in six states – Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. An auction benefiting the CMN hospitals is an annual tradition at the gathering.

Attendees loved Jade Graczyk, who served as a Miracle Child for the auction. Jade was diagnosed with kidney cancer at age five, but now is a vibrant, cancer-free eight-year-old. Jade and her family helped inspire bidding supporting the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in the GoWest region, including Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital in Spokane, where Jade was treated.  

“Without you and your ongoing support, there is no Children’s Miracle Network,” said Ryan Graczyk, Jade’s father. “Thank you for all you do for families like ours.” 

Watch Jade’s story below. 

Seconding appreciation for the work of Credit Unions for Kids was Dr. Dana Braner, who has been caring for critically ill children at OSHU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in Portland, Oregon, for more than 30 years. 

“Children are the only future we have,” Braner said. “Every single child has the potential to change the world for the best.”

Jade’s story and remarks by Dr. Braner set the stage for a night of generosity. 

This year’s 80's theme inspired donors to dust off their best "Running Man" on the dance floor as they got ready for a “rad” night of giving for the kids – competitively bidding on children's electric cars for the hospitals. The cars are often used to transport hospitalized children to their appointments and treatments, providing more cheer than traditional gurneys. In addition to the red car tradition, auction attendees also bid on luxury travel packages, and raised their paddles high to contribute to “Cash for Kids.”

"Credit Unions in the GoWest region are passionate supporters of the CMN hospitals year after year, but the annual auction during MAXX is when they come together for totally awesome giving,” said GoWest President/CEO Troy Stang. "Every year they’re determined to break fundraising records, so the bar is set high for 2024.”