American Airlines Federal Credit Union proudly presented Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals with a $56,000 donation as a result of the 24^rd Annual Credit Union Golf Tournament – which took place on Sept. 4, 2020, at Cowboys Golf Club in Grapevine, Texas. The total donation will be split between Cook Children’s Medical Center Foundation and Children’s Medical Center Foundation.

The check was presented last month at the American Airlines Credit Union headquarters building in Fort Worth. Karol Johnson, Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth; and Kendal Rowden, Children’s Medical Center Foundation in Dallas; were in attendance to accept the donation from Credit Union President & CEO Gail Enda and tournament coordinator Tish Pruitt.

The tournament was sponsored by a number of Credit Union vendor/partners, including presenting sponsors: Global Vision Systems, Inc.; Symitar; PSCU; and many other businesses who participated at various sponsorship levels.

“Despite concerns around the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we made the decision to hold this year’s tournament after postponing the traditional May event because we recognized that charities are in exceptional need at this time and our overall charitable donations have been down because of the pandemic,” said Tish Pruitt, Golf Tournament Director at American Airlines Credit Union. “But did so only after taking extra measures to ensure the safety of all or our participants as well as our volunteers.”

As golf is an outdoor activity where social distancing is possible, the event went on as planned with the addition of a number of changes to ensure further safety, including a reduced pool of volunteers, the elimination of any additional games, a virtual silent auction and credit card-only purchases for Mulligans, buy-ups and other fund-raising efforts.

Cowboys Golf Club also implemented a number of heightened safety procedures, including stringent, regular sanitation procedures based on CDC recommended guidelines, boxed meals as well as credit card only-usage at the pro shop, beverage carts and grill. Masks were also required inside the clubhouse unless eating a meal or having a drink with course mask usage based on current recommendations

Credit unions hold fast to their motto of "People Helping People" and this philosophy blossoms with the industry's support of Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. Credit unions, fund-raising under the Credit Unions for Kids brand, have partnered with Children's Miracle Network Hospitals since 1996 and have generated more than $100 million in contributions.

“For more than 20 years, American Airlines Credit Union has faithfully stood by the sides of sick and injured kids who count on Children’s Health,” said Brent Christopher, president of Children’s Medical Center Foundation. “Because of your gifts, we’re able to help more patients and their families than ever before – from providing care to conducting breakthrough research. There’s a lot more air in the Children’s Health red balloon thanks to you!”

“Cook Children’s is incredibly grateful for our long-standing partnership with American Airlines Credit Union,” said Grant Harris, SVP, Chief Development Officer, Cook Children’s Health Foundation. “Thanks to you and your generous support of our Sit…Stay…PLAY program, our patients receive a unique form of healing in their interactions with our seven therapy dogs. On behalf of our staff, patients and families, I would like to extend our sincerest gratitude for all that you do.”