Children's Miracle Network Hospitals

Children's Miracle Network Hospitals is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds for a network of children's hospitals across North America. Founded in 1983, it supports over 170 member hospitals that provide critical care, research, and community health programs. The organization is known for its extensive fundraising partnerships with major corporations, media outlets, and celebrities, channeling millions of dollars annually to support pediatric medical care.

History

The organization was co-founded in 1983 by entertainers Marie Osmond and John Schneider, along with businessmen Joe Lake and Mick Shannon. The inaugural fundraising telethon was broadcast from Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, establishing a long-standing association with The Walt Disney Company. Early support came from corporate partners like Delta Air Lines and Marriott International. In 1996, the organization merged with the Credit Unions for Kids program, significantly expanding its fundraising base. A major rebranding in 2011 saw the name officially change to Children's Miracle Network Hospitals to more directly highlight its hospital network. Key milestones include surpassing $7 billion in cumulative funds raised and establishing the annual Miracle Network Dance Marathon movement across hundreds of college campuses.

Fundraising and partnerships

Fundraising is executed through a vast network of corporate alliances and community events. Major partners include Walmart, Costco, RE/MAX, ACE Hardware, and Marriott International, which conduct annual in-store campaigns. The Credit Unions for Kids program remains a cornerstone, involving thousands of credit unions. Media partnerships are central, with annual telethons broadcast by affiliates of ABC, iHeartMedia, and CTV Television Network. The Miracle Network Dance Marathon, held at institutions like the University of Iowa and Pennsylvania State University, is a flagship student-led program. Additional initiatives include the Extra Life gaming marathon and campaigns tied to Miss America contestants. Celebrity ambassadors, including Darius Rucker and Garth Brooks, frequently lend their support to campaigns.

Member hospitals and impact

The network comprises over 170 independent children's hospitals across the United States and Canada. Notable members include Boston Children's Hospital, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Texas Children's Hospital, and Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. Funds raised are directed locally, with each partner corporation designating donations to a specific hospital in its community. These unrestricted funds support critical areas such as charitable care, pediatric medical equipment, research initiatives, and child life services. Annually, member hospitals collectively provide care for millions of children, regardless of a family's ability to pay. The network's structure ensures that funds address the most urgent needs identified by local hospital leadership, from supporting neonatal intensive care units to funding groundbreaking research in childhood diseases.

Programs and services

The organization funds and promotes a wide array of hospital-based programs. A primary focus is supporting child life specialists who help children cope with hospitalization. Funds also purchase vital medical technology, such as magnetic resonance imaging machines and incubators for neonatology. Research grants advance treatments for conditions like childhood cancer and cystic fibrosis. Community outreach programs include injury prevention education and mobile health clinics. Specific initiatives like the CMNH Hospitals Child Life Program ensure psychosocial support, while disaster relief funds assist hospitals during crises like Hurricane Katrina. The network also facilitates awareness campaigns during annual events like Miracle Month in May.

Governance and organization

The organization is headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, and operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Governance is provided by a board of directors comprising leaders from corporate partners, hospital administrators, and community figures. Day-to-day operations are led by President and CEO Terri Nestor. A significant operational model involves Children's Miracle Network Hospitals staff coordinating national partnerships, while local hospital foundations manage community relations and fund allocation. The network collaborates closely with the Children's Hospital Association. Financial oversight and reporting adhere to standards set by the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance, with annual audits conducted by independent firms.