Katelyn Perry-Miss Jones County
Children's Miracle Network Hospitals
CSI: Children's Miracle Network Hospitals
About CMN Hospitals
Children's Miracle Network Hospitals form the largest network of children's hospitals in the US and Canada. With 170 member hospitals, they accommodate 38 million patient visits for 12 million children annually. The organization has raised nearly nine billion dollars, primarily through small donations, to fund life-saving treatments, disease prevention research, and educational outreach programs that help keep millions of kids healthy and out of the hospital each year.
My Involvement with CMN
Where it started:
As the sister of a child who faced a prolonged hospital stay at birth, I have felt the profound impact that Children's Miracle Network Hospitals have on families. Watching my sibling fight for their life and seeing the unwavering support and care provided by CMN hospitals deeply touched my heart. This personal connection has made their mission incredibly meaningful to me, instilling a sense of purpose and gratitude from a very young age.
Crowns For A Cause
In 2021, I founded Crowns for a Cause, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that functions as both an ambassador program and a mentorship opportunity for girls of all ages. Our mission is to instill the value of community service while expanding our outreach and support for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. In just three years, we've grown into a nationally recognized organization—welcoming over 125 ambassadors from more than 20 states—and we continue to grow every day.
To date, our ambassadors have rallied to donate over 130,000 boxes of Band-Aids, 30,000 pairs of fun socks, and more than $15,000 in cash — all in the name of making a difference.
​
Every time an ambassador reaches a new milestone in their collection efforts, they’re rewarded with a small token that reinforces the importance of working toward a goal and celebrating progress.
National Partnerships:
For the last four years, we have partnered with national brand, Kendra Scott, for an exclusive Crowns For A Cause line where proceeds benefited Children's of Mississippi.
Another exciting opportunity was our partnership with Remnant Jewelry to create a custom-designed earring featuring the iconic Children’s Miracle Network balloon. This exclusive piece was more than just jewelry—it was a symbol of hope and healing. Every dollar from the sale of these earrings was donated directly to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
Papa Johns Pizza so graciously joined joined our efforts by providing pizza to the classrooms and businesses who were victorious in our Band-Aid battles. They also provided dinner for our cast and crew during rehearsals and after the final curtain each year during the "Gulf Coast: On Broadway" fundraiser.
Additionally, we partnered with the MakeSense Foundation and Elwyn Foundation to provide more than $50,000 in care packages for nurses and support staff in CMN Hospitals in three states.
Fundraising Efforts:
Gulf Coast On Broadway has become an annual fundraiser with proceeds benefitting CMN Hospitals. This highly anticipated event is hosted by Biloxi Little Theatre and brings in performers from all over the Gulf Coast.
After reaching a significant fundraising goal, I was able to participate in Friends of Children's "Over The Edge" to celebrate the fundraising efforts for Children's of Mississippi. Rappelling off of a six story building was an exciting way to celebrate our fundraising goals.
Each spring before Easter, we hold the annual “Egg My Head” fundraiser turns donations for CMN Hospitals into eggs cracked over my head.
In 2023, we designated April 8th as National Make A Difference Day. With the help of local businesses, media partners, and our Crowns For A Cause Ambassadors, we were able to collect over 500 locally for victims of the MS tornadoes that year and our ambassadors nationwide got involved in projects in their own communities. Last year, April 8th was recognized as Make A Difference Day with a proclamation from the MS Senate.
St. Patrick's Day Parade
This year I was so honored to participate in the St. Patrick's Day Parade where I walked the parade route with staff from Children's of Mississippi collecting donations along the way.
Media:
.png)
From advocating and fundraising to mentoring others on the importance of giving back, I pour my heart into every opportunity to make a difference. Whether I’m working hands-on with my nonprofit or inspiring the next generation to serve, I’m Katelyn Perry, Miss Jones County — and I am proud to be- For The Kids.