Uniting the Clans Part II: Marching Miles for Miracle Kids

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Thank you for the GREAT response to the last Hero's Voice column, Uniting the Clans (click here to read the column). We heard from a lot of you about how important it is to work together, and how easily forgotten it can be even among groups within the same company.

However, one story we received in response is incredibly inspiring and illustrates perfectly the power of cooperation. The story comes from Bill Butler, CEO of Ohio HealthCare Credit Union just outside of Columbus, Ohio. Bill's credit union has a very specific Metropolis (target audience): they serve healthcare professionals in Central Ohio. Because of their focus on the needs and issues of the healthcare field, the credit union decided to be a hero by getting involved in supporting the local Children's Hospital network.

But rather than trying to go it alone in raising money, Bill recognized that by "uniting the clans" and getting a larger group involved, the results could be even greater. His idea has led to the creation of a state-wide credit union event, Marching Miles for Miracle Kids:

Marching Miles for Miracle Kids is an Ohio statewide event to support Children's Miracle Network and Ohio's Children's Hospitals. The event starts this Sunday April 1st and consists of a relay-style march beginning in Central Ohio and ending on Thursday April 19th at the Ohio Credit Union League's convention in Cincinnati Ohio. Donations go to the nine Ohio Children's Hospitals.

Marching Miles for Miracle Kids has been developed for a variety of reasons.

To raise money for Ohio Children's Hospitals

To make a difference in the community

To build credit union team spirit among all credit unions in Ohio

To develop national awareness about Children's Miracle Network

Bill says that by uniting the Ohio Credit Union clan, the results have been a "contagious creativity" that has helped the event blossom into something extraordinary. "When people are inspired and come together for a common cause, miracles can happen."

To find out more about the event, go to www.marchingmiles.com. Their goal is to raise $75,000 this year. If you've been inspired by the power of "uniting the clans," please consider supporting Bill and his efforts. Donations can be made by going to https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/StartUp.aspx?SID=1368249 and selecting the "Sponsor Me" button.

Thanks for sharing your story, Bill. And thanks for making miracles happen.

Lisa and the Creative Abandon team