The Caribbean Atlantic District

Hospitalized infants and children need special pharmaceuticals and equipment engineered to work with their small stature. From the tiniest tube or milliliter of medication to ECMO, a formidable device that acts as an artificial lung outside the body, medicines and machines that help sick kids get well are specialized - and high priced. Skilled pediatric professionals armed with evolving treatments and expensive tools work to save more than 14 million children annually from life-threatening injuries, birth defects, cancer, and numerous other ailments. 

In order to afford treatment, children's hospitals require funding. Children's Miracle Network (CMN) is a nonprofit organization that raises money to benefit hospitalized kids and increases awareness of its member hospitals. All CMN contributions directly benefit hospitals, helping to purchase up-to-date equipment, train staff, conduct life-saving research, implement outreach programs, and provide healthcare for children whose parents can't afford to pay.

In 1996, Key Club International decided to partner with CMN. Key Clubs participate by sponsoring fund-raising events. In addition to raising funds, Key Club members also can participate in service projects at their local children's hospital in the following ways: 

• Provide toys and dolls for kids going through trauma.
• Contribute to or create video, toy, or book lending libraries or playrooms.
• Help staff information booths or surgery waiting rooms.
• Assist families with children who require long-term care or who live great distances from hospitals.
• Support safety campaigns or parent education programs.
• Purchase specific pieces of equipment.
• Volunteer at your local community broadcast. The annual broadcast will air nation-wide during the weekend of June 3-5, 2006, inspiring millions of people with the heartwarming stories of children who have triumphed over diseases and injuries of all kinds.

There are 170 children's hospitals affiliated with Children's Miracle Network. Find a Children's Miracle Network hospital near you and learn about the work they are doing in your community.