Capitol Hill Run Spotlights Credit Union Industry in Era of Unprecedented Financial Services Legislation

WASHINGTON, Nov. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Current legislative issues affecting credit unions, and a nationwide decline in charitable giving, has made support for the 2010 Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run® more imperative than ever before. The annual Washington D.C. race not only highlights the credit union industry, but also spotlights its commitment to community service since all proceeds go to Children's Miracle Network hospitals.

PSCU Financial Services, the nation's largest credit union service organization, is the lead corporate sponsor for the Sunday, April 11 run, but additional financial support from credit unions and the industry is needed.

"This annual run has always been an important opportunity to gain recognition for our industry on Capitol Hill, but proposed financial services legislation amplifies the need to showcase the credit union difference and makes it vital for credit unions to unite in support of this important event," said David J. Serlo, president and CEO, PSCU Financial Services.

Credit unions can sign up as a race sponsor and make donations at www.cucherryblossomrun.org. An easy way for PSCU Financial Services member credit unions to make a contribution is by donating a portion of interchange income, since the cooperative handles the processing.

The 2009 Credit Union Cherry Blossom Run involved 133 sponsors, including 95 credit unions and 38 affiliated organizations. Nearly 15,000 runners participated, including about 500 influential legislators, aides and government employees as well as members of credit unions and individuals. Online donations from runners and others totaled $100,000.

During the past eight years more than $3.6 million has been donated to Children's Miracle Network - an alliance of 170 children's hospitals across North America that treats 17 million critically ill children annually.

"Many Americans have lost jobs and health insurance coverage, so there is an even greater need than ever to provide critical medical treatment for families in need," Serlo said.

Based in St. Petersburg, Florida, PSCU Financial Services is the nation's largest credit union service organization. PSCU serves more than 1,300 financial institutions nationwide. For more information, visit PSCU Financial Services' website at www.pscufs.com.