(Editor's note: for more information on this project, please contact John McGrail at the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation.)
Credit unions are joining forces with the Democratic National Convention and National Journal to restore, refresh and revitalize a rooftop playground at Levine Children’s Hospital used by young patients and their families who are in need of a break and a deep breath.
In the months leading up to the 2012 Democratic National Convention in September, credit unions will work with the Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) to convert existing outdoor rooftop space on Levine Children’s Hospital 12th floor into a dynamic play space. New features will include a touch-activated light and color “bubble wall,” a deck and pavilion; outdoor play equipment, and much-needed environmental improvements.
“I am grateful to all involved for making this possible,” said Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx. “An opportunity like this is a perfect example of why we worked to bring the convention to the city of Charlotte. After all the crowds are gone, projects like this and the impacts they have on Charlotte’s families, will define the legacies that the convention will leave.”
“From day one, the DNCC has made it a priority to be a part of the Charlotte community and to give back to the city through service,” said Steve Kerrigan, CEO of the Democratic National Convention Committee. “Upgrading the rooftop space at Levine Children’s Hospital is a great way to aid in a child’s recovery. We’re honored to participate in this project, which will impact so many families not only in Charlotte, but across the region.”
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| John Radebaugh, President and CEO of the North Carolina Credit Union League, said, “We’re excited to put the credit union philosophy of people helping people into action by helping with this worthy project, and in the process join with the Democratic National Convention to shine a light on the amazing work that Levine Children’s does for the communities it serves.” |
Since 2000, credit unions have honored cities hosting national party conventions with “leave-behind” projects that serve the local communities long after the conventions leave town. The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation, representing credit unions in North and South Carolina, will spearhead the $300,000 fundraising effort in the Carolinas to cover the costs of the upgrade project. The NC Credit Union League is pleased to join the following organizations as lead sponsors of the effort: the Credit Union National Association, the South Carolina Credit Union League, CUNA Mutual Group, and National Journal, a Washington, DC-based publication covering politics and policy.
Levine Children’s Hospital welcomed the efforts from all of the partners. “It is our mission to ensure extraordinary healthcare for children and their families, and part of that involves creating a sense of normalcy during their hospitalization,” said Martha Whitecotton, President of Levine Children’s Hospital. “The improvements being made by the Democratic National Convention, National Journal, and credit unions will help provide a special place where patients become regular kids… and where they can play, which is an essential tool in the healing process.”
Construction will unfold over the spring and summer, and will include volunteer opportunities for credit union employees and convention staff to lend a personal hand. Plans call for a ribbon-cutting event to be held during the week of the convention, which will be held September 4 – 6. A companion project is being undertaken by credit unions at All Children’s Hospital in Tampa-St. Petersburg, FL, site of the 2012 Republican National Convention.