Costco Connection

Balloons for Children’s EVERY MAY, Costco warehouses become festooned with balloons. What’s the occasion? It’s the launch of the annual Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals fundraising campaign. The balloons are made of paper and each one represents the generosity of Costco members and employees who contribute to this worthy cause.

This year, the balloons will take on a new
look as Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals
has updated their color and shape as part of a
rebranding program. But what’s behind the
brand has stayed the same: raising funds that
flow to local children’s hospitals around the
country. These dollars support research and
training, purchase specialized equipment and
pay for uncompensated care.
Costco has been a sponsor of the cam-
paign since 1988. It’s one of the main charities
that Costco supports, and 2010 contributions
in the U.S. and Canada totaled more than $16
million, not including a corporate match.

Warehouse employees get behind this campaign in a big way, according to Art Jackson, vice president of administration, and individual goals inspire competiton to

COUTESY OF CHILDREN’S MIRACLE NETWORK HOSPITALS

raise the most funds. But ultimately it is the support of members that determines the fundraiser’s success. “The support of Costco members and employees allows us to make a significant contribution to the care offered by the Network’s 170 children’s hospitals,” says Art. With a mission to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible, these hospitals provide state-of-the-art medical help to youngsters suffering from major ill-nesses, such as cancer and cystic fibrosis, as well as all manner of emergency care.

Want to do your part? Balloons will be for sale at the registers during the month of May. They only cost $1 (although $5 balloons are also available), and your local children’s hospital or a child you know might be the beneficiary.

To learn more, go to http://childrensmiracle networkhospitals.org.—Anita Thompson

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