Virginia Beach, VA (September 30, 2025) – This September, Chartway Credit Union and the Chartway Promise Foundation marked a significant milestone: 20 years of bringing joy, hope, and smiles to medically fragile children, known as Promise Heroes. Throughout Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the foundation hosted an array of events that not only raised awareness but also funds to support these brave young warriors and their families.

A Month of Impactful Events

The month was packed with signature events, including the beloved Swings Fore Smiles golf tournament and the A Night for Hope fundraiser. These events brought together community members, partners, and volunteers in Virginia, Texas, and Utah, who were all united in their mission to support Promise Heroes.

Thanks to the generosity of members and supporters, the foundation surpassed its fundraising goal, raising an impressive $275,000—enabling it to continue its vital work and maintain its trajectory towards raising over $1 million this year alone.

Voices of Hope

Christine Wilson, president of the Chartway Promise Foundation, expressed her gratitude and commitment: “Every September, we focus on the children and families facing this arduous journey and want to support them at each step along the way. The foundation is about standing with these courageous heroes and giving them and their families the support and knowledge that they are not fighting alone.”

Brian Schools, president & CEO of Chartway Credit Union, added: “At Chartway, purpose shows up in meaningful moments. Our community came together to uplift children and their families, and we are honored to make a difference.”

Signature Events Highlight

A Night for Hope: Roaring 20th Anniversary Celebration

On September 28, community members gathered at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center for a glamorous 1920s-themed evening. Guests enjoyed cocktails, tastings, music, and a silent auction, all while hearing heartfelt testimonials from families.

One of the highlights of the evening was a special appearance by Julie Dixon Bradshaw, the foundation’s first Promise Hero, who shared her inspiring story of recovery from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

“My wish was to go to Disney World to see Cinderella, but not her evil stepsisters, and they made it happen,” Julie recalled. “I don’t remember any of the bad stuff from that time, thanks to Chartway Promise Foundation and Make-A-Wish.”

Swings Fore Smiles Golf Tournament

On September 29, the foundation hosted its 26th Annual Swings Fore Smiles golf tournament at Broad Bay Country Club. This year’s tournament featured a heartwarming surprise Dream Reveal for Alexander “Zan”, a four-year-old in remission from liver cancer. His family learned they would be heading to Walt Disney World in October, a moment that brought tears of joy and hope.

Zan’s mother, Heather, expressed her gratitude:  “Seeing Zan’s reaction was unforgettable. His face just lit up because his dream trip gives us something we haven’t had in a long time — time together as a family to laugh, relax, and just be in the moment.”

A Month of Dreams Fulfilled

Throughout September, the foundation fulfilled the wishes and dreams of six Promise Heroes in various markets, collaborating with partners like Make-A-Wish, Roc Solid Foundation, and Toby’s Dream Foundation. Here are some of the highlights:

  • August 30-31: Chartway Virginia Beach 10-Miler & 5K
    • Promise Hero: Jensen, age 4, received a fishing-charter wish.
    • Promise Hero: Drake, age 16, was recognized after returning from his Make-A-Wish trip to Hawaii.
  • September 5: VIP treatment for Promise Heroes at the Utah State Fair.
  • September 13: A backyard playset build for LJ (James), age 9.
  • September 17: All-Market Team Member Volunteer Day, featuring various projects to support local Promise Heroes.

Looking Ahead

Since its inception in 2005, the Chartway Promise Foundation has granted $16 million to support impactful programming for medically fragile children through over 50 charitable partners. The foundation is currently accepting charitable grant applications until November 1, 2025, with funds to be awarded in December for 2026 programs.

To learn more about the wonderful work being done by Chartway Credit Union and the Chartway Promise Foundation, visit Chartway.com and ChartwayPromiseFoundation.org.