Opinion: More allies needed in fight against pediatric cancer

September brings with it a special focus on a cause close to the hearts of many Hampton Roads families: pediatric cancer awareness. With more than 15,000 children diagnosed and 1,500 dying annually, by disease in children in the U. S.

The month is a time for us to reflect not only on the challenges that young patients and their families face, but also on the incredible capacity of communities to rally together for a common purpose. This collective spirit is the essence of credit unions and profoundly impacts the communities we serve. Our strong sense of social responsibility is rooted in the credit union philosophy of “people helping people” and the core principle of “concern for community.

” More than ever, credit unions are expanding our charitable works to align with our core values. A great example of these philanthropic efforts is the program, which has generated approximately $11 million to benefit 170 Children’s Miracle Network hospitals and makes credit unions their third-largest sponsor overall. Strategic and sustained philanthropy allows us to make authentic, meaningful connections with members.

It brings a spirit of service to strengthen our communities. Through financial education, charitable donations, volunteerism and other initiatives such as scholarship and internship programs, credit unions are true partners that improve people’s day-to-day lives — not just their financial lives. The Chartway Promise Foundation, our charitable arm, is at the heart of Chartway’s community commitment, raising nearly $14 million over the years in support of thousands of medically fragile children and their families in our markets, inside and outside Hampton Roads.

Throughout the year, our foundation partners with local charities, supporters, volunteers and team members to raise the funds needed to support local children’s hospitals and make dreams and wishes come true for young Promise heroes. This September, we’re taking our commitment to the next level — fulfilling wishes for four local children through grants to our charitable partners Make-a-Wish Greater Virginia, Toby’s Dream Foundation, Hooked on Hope VB and Roc Solid Foundation. The story of pediatric cancer is not just one of struggle but also about resilience and hope, so we celebrate with “Wish Reveals” at fun and festive community events.

Last year, we had an amazing for two little boys at the Old Dominion University football game against Virginia Tech in front of 22,000 football fans and millions of TV viewers. Cameron and Foster, 5- and 6-year-old boys, met and became close during their leukemia treatments at Norfolk’s Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters. Since Cameron’s mom graduated from Virginia Tech, he is a Hokie fan; Foster is a Monarch fan since his father is an Old Dominion graduate.

When we learned they wished to go to Disney together, we couldn’t think of a better way to surprise them with the news than by telling them down on the field during this in-state rivalry. We’re proud that so many people were reached with pediatric cancer awareness messages through that single event. This year, we’ll be back on the field with another inspiring and heartwarming Wish Reveal during the ODU football face-off against Wake Forest on Sept.

16. We hope everyone tunes in to see how we are fulfilling our industry’s commitment to community by creating joy, hope and smiles for medically fragile children and their families. Sign up for email newsletters.