Your Family Can Help Sick Kids Heal
At Johns Hopkins All Children’s, children are at the heart of everything we do — and families play an important role in teaching compassion, generosity and service. By getting your child involved, you’re helping them learn empathy while supporting kids who need it most.
No matter your child’s age or interests — baking, gaming, crafting or spending time with friends — there are simple, meaningful ways to turn what they love into an opportunity to help others.
Every effort, big or small, helps sick kids feel stronger, smile brighter and heal faster. The Johns Hopkins All Children’s Foundation team is here to support your family every step of the way.
Leading the Way with Kindness
Meet Anna. Anna is a sixth grader with a big smile and an even bigger heart. With the support of her family, she has helped children at Johns Hopkins All Children’s find hope and comfort during difficult times. From lemonade stands and bake sales to toy drives and art drawings, Anna has shown how kids can make a real difference when parents encourage and guide them.
Her kindness is helping children and families when they need it most — and inspiring others to do the same.
Ways Kids of All Ages Can Get Involved
-
Fundraising is a fun way for kids to learn leadership and teamwork while helping others. From bake sales and art sales to school-wide events, almost anything can become a fundraiser. Parents can help by guiding planning and connecting with teachers or community groups.
Our Community Fundraising team is happy to help bring your child’s idea to life. Learn more to get started.
-
Instead of birthday or holiday gifts, consider asking friends and family to donate new toys for children in the hospital. It’s a meaningful way to teach gratitude and generosity.
Review our list of most-wanted toys and safety guidelines.
-
Each fall, the hospital hosts a race that raises money for sick kids. Families can form teams with friends, schools, clubs or sports teams. It’s a great way to stay active, spend time together and show kids how community support makes a difference.
Learn more about Run for All Children.
-
Kids can create DIY projects like craft kits, coloring books or small toys for children staying in the hospital. Parents can help assemble and package items following donation guidelines. These projects give hospitalized kids comfort and fun during their stay.
Explore some ideas and review our guidelines.
-
If your child loves gaming, Extra Life is a perfect fit. Kids can play video games, board games or card games to raise money for Johns Hopkins All Children’s, a Children’s Miracle Network hospital. Parents can help with registration and fundraising support.
Register online and connect with our CMN team at [email protected] to get started.
-
Dance Marathon is a student-led movement that empowers teens to raise funds for their local Children’s Miracle Network hospital. Many high schools and colleges already participate, but parents and students can help start one if it doesn’t exist yet.
“Through all the highs and the lows, I would do it over again, just to fight for one single family.”
Sign up for Dance Marathon | Contact our team for more information
-
For teens interested in health care careers, Medical Explorers offers a 10-week hands-on summer program for high school sophomores and older (age 16+). Space is limited for in-person participation, with unlimited virtual options available. Parents and students can also inquire about department shadowing opportunities.
Learn more about the Medical Explorers program.