TULLAHOMA, Tenn.,November 12, 2024 –Ascend Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in Middle Tennessee, announced today it has donated $10,000 to the Tennessee/Alabama Region of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) to support LLS’ Dare to Dream Project, which is transforming treatment and care for kids with blood cancer. Credit union employees and members also contributed an additional $4,167. The donations help fund cancer research and provide support services to cancer patients and their families.

"We are incredibly grateful for Ascend Federal Credit Union's continuous support of the LLS mission and are proud to see they've exceeded the $50,000 milestone for support,” said Brea McCormley, LLS Tennesee/Alabama Executive Director. “This partnership not only raises awareness for the resources LLS provides patients and their families, but also necessary funds to bolster our efforts in developing life-saving treatments. Through their commitment, Ascend is bringing hope and healing to cancer patients and their families, and helping us get one step closer to a cure."

"We are grateful for the opportunity to continue our longstanding partnership with LLS,” said Matt Jernigan, Ascend president and CEO. “This year's donation reflects the determination of our members and employees to make a tangible impact in the lives of those affected by these diseases. Ascend is proud to play a role in this vital mission, and we remain dedicated to supporting LLS's efforts to improve outcomes for blood cancer patients across Middle Tennessee and beyond."

A longtime partner with the Tennessee/Alabama Region of LLS, Ascend again this year supported its annual fundraising event, “Costumed for a Cure.” This Halloween, employees at Ascend locations throughout Middle Tennessee dressed up in their most creative costumes and decorated pumpkins. Anyone who visited an Ascend branch could vote for their favorite costume or pumpkin with a contribution to LLS. Donations also were accepted through a custom fundraising website. Costumed for a Cure raised $4,167 from employee and member donations, bringing the 18-year fundraising total to $53,046. All funds will go toward supporting blood cancer research, as well as improving the quality of life for patients and their families.

About Ascend Federal Credit Union

With more than 245,000 members and more than $4.4 billion in assets, Ascend Federal Credit Union is the largest credit union in Middle Tennessee and one of the largest federally chartered credit unions in the United States. Based in Tullahoma, Tenn., the member-owned financial institution offers banking, loan, retirement, and investment services from its 28 branches, more than 55,000 free ATMs worldwide, digital banking portal, and mobile app. The credit union’s mission is to serve by offering financial literacy education and giving back to its community in a variety of ways. Ascend is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration. For more information, visit ascend.org.

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