Summer CMN Campaigns: Ways to Give Back

There are several exciting opportunities this summer to support children and families served by University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Through partnerships with local and national retailers, it’s easy to make a meaningful impact right here in our community. 

By Sunnie Amelon

Purchase a Miracle Balloon at Dairy Queen

Dairy Queen’s annual Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Miracle Balloon campaign is underway, offering a simple way to give back while enjoying your favorite treats.

When visiting participating locations, guests can purchase a Miracle Balloon at the register or round up their total at checkout. Every contribution helps support local kids and families cared for at Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

The next time you stop in for a Blizzard, burger, or cone, consider adding a Miracle Balloon to your order—together, we can make a difference.

Participating locations include:

Rock Falls, IL
Colona, IL
Geneseo, IL
Sterling, IL
West Des Moines, IA
Iowa Falls, IA
Solon, IA
West Union, IA
Bettendorf, IA
Waukee, IA
Macon, MO
 

Many locations also offer the option to round up your purchase, turning spare change into meaningful support for local kids. And don’t forget to save the date for Miracle Treat Day on Thursday, July 30—a portion of every Blizzard sold at participating locations will benefit Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Enjoying an ice cream treat has never been so sweet!

 

Walmart & Sam’s Club Campaign Kicks Off June 8

The annual Walmart and Sam’s Club Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals campaign runs from June 8 through July 5, 2026.

This campaign brings together associates, customers, and communities to support local children’s healthcare through in-store giving opportunities. Last year alone, Walmart and Sam’s Club locations across Iowa and surrounding states raised more than $1 million in support of Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

As this year’s campaign begins, we invite you to join in making a difference—one donation at a time.

 

Ollie’s Bargain Outlet Campaign Now Through June 14

Ollie’s Bargain Outlet’s Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals campaign is underway now through June 14, 2026.

During your next visit, you can support Stead Family Children’s Hospital by rounding up your purchase or making a donation at checkout. It’s a simple way to give back while you shop, with every contribution making a local impact.

 

Ace Hardware Bucket Days | August 7–9

Mark your calendars for Ace Hardware Bucket Days, August 7–9. During this three-day event, customers can purchase a $5 Miracle Bucket at participating Ace Hardware locations and receive 20% off almost everything that fits inside.

It’s a fun and practical way to give back—while tackling your next home or DIY project, you’re also helping support local kids and families.

 

Make a Difference Today

Whether you’re purchasing a Miracle Balloon, rounding up at checkout, or making a donation in-store, every act of generosity makes an impact. 

These contributions help advance pediatric care and provide critical support to families when they need it most, benefiting children across Iowa and beyond.

Together, we can create miracles for local kids.

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