Miracle Makers: Making Miracles One “Penny” at a Time

Miracle Makers is a series of 30 stories from Walmart and Sam’s Club associates to celebrate the companies’ 30th anniversary of fundraising for CMN Hospitals

During her 23 years at Walmart, Penny Watkins has poured hundreds of hours into planning unique Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals fundraising events for Walmart associates and the local community.

Everything from trips to waterparks, raffles, bus excursions to Manhattan and Boston, chili cook-offs, and potlucks has brought in a steady stream of donations, usually averaging between $12,000 – $15,000 in just a few months.

Her favorite event so far? A party train ride filled with treats, games, and giveaways. Penny’s knack for pairing fun and fundraising certainly pays off. Last year, she helped her store raise $17,224.   

Organizing and planning these events takes time and dedication, but Penny doesn’t mind. Her goal is to make hard times easier for the families around her. “This money is going to our local hospital, Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare,” she says. “Just helping one child here in the community is worth it.”

Help Penny give back to the community by donating at your local Walmart or Sam’s Club today!