NACS Comes Together to Support Local Children's Hospital

North American Credit Services (NACS) and Medical Services of Chattanooga was a proud sponsor for the 8th Annual Dragon Boat Festival held recently in Chattanooga, Tennessee benefiting the areas only Children’s Hospital.

NACS company crew team comprised of twenty employees along with forty community teams participated in a competitive charity challenge, which raised over $200,000.

“Our 2014 NACS Crew gave it their all this year and represented us well.” shared Dallas S. Bunton, Sr., CEO and Chairman of NACS and Medical Services of Chattanooga. “It’s a great team building experience, where everyone enjoys a bit of healthy competition and for such an important cause.”

Each team had one on-water practice prior to the event and competed in at least two heats on the day of the race, for the aspired title of Grand Champion.

“Dating back more than 2,300 years, Dragon Boat racing features teams of 20 paddlers, a drummer and a steerer in an authentic 41-foot long Chinese dragon boat racing to the finish line,” explained Penny Behling, Dynamic Dragon Boat Racing CEO. Paddlers of all ages, skill and fitness levels can participate, making it the ultimate team building sport.

Julie Taylor, Chief Development Officer/President – Erlanger Health System Foundations; Dallas S. Bunton, Sr. CEO/Chairman – NACS and Medical Services of Chattanooga; PJ-Fox Tolbert; and Katie Jackson, Annual Giving/Events Coordinator – Erlanger Health System Foundations).

“All pulling together, to help make a positive difference in the lives of children and families throughout our community.” states Julie Taylor, Chief Development Officer and President for the Children’s Hospital Foundation at Erlanger Health System. “Top prizes are awarded to the fastest teams and the teams who raise the most money, but the real winners are the children treated at our hospital. Patient’s with stories of hope and life, such as 4-year old PJ-Fox Tolbert.”

Young PJ-Fox did not have an easy start. Born prematurely and weighing fewer than three pounds, PJ-Fox was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia before his first birthday. His diet was also restricted due to severe food allergies and eosinophilic esophagitis. Although PJ-Fox has spent significant time in the hospital, and in various types of therapy, his mother Binta says, “He has an infectious smile and laugh that is contagious. He remains active through swimming, therapeutic horseback riding, and playing with his Legos.”