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Frequently Asked Questions

The Department of Development at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center provides answers to frequently asked questions about giving to the medical center.

Is Cincinnati Children's a not-for-profit organization?

Yes. Both Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Foundation are 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations.

Where should I send my donation?

If you would like to mail a donation, please send your check to:

Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
P.O. Box 5202
Cincinnati, Ohio 45201-5202

Will I receive a tax receipt when I make a donation?

Yes, all donors receive written acknowledgement of their contribution which serves as an official tax record.

Can I designate my contribution to a particular program at Cincinnati Children's?

Unrestricted gifts are preferable as they enable the medical center to best address our most pressing needs; however if you choose, you may designate your gift to a specific program area. If you are making your contribution online, you can specify how you want your gift to be applied in the designation field. If you are mailing in a contribution, simply enclose a brief note with your check naming the department or program that you would like to benefit from your gift.

Can I make a gift in honor or in memory of a friend or family member?

Yes. If you are making your gift online, select the option to make a special gift and include the name of the person you are honoring with your gift. If you are mailing in your contribution, please include a note with your gift that tells us the name of the person being honored or remembered. You will also need to provide us with the name and address of anyone who should be notified of your gift (for example: the honoree, their spouse or parent.) They will receive an acknowledgement card regarding your gift. The amount of your contribution will not be shared in this card. You will receive a written acknowledgement of your contribution, which serves as an official tax record.

Can I make a stock gift to Cincinnati Children's?

Yes. Stock gifts are often the most economical way for supporters of Cincinnati Children's to make a charitable contribution. They make an immediate impact on the lives of the children we serve, while offering the donor tax benefits. Members of our staff are available to discuss the best way for you to make a gift, either through an electronic transfer of your shares or via a physical stock certificate. For further information, please contact Liz Curnett (liz.curnett@cchmc.org), 513-636-4484.

Can I leave a gift to Cincinnati Children's in my will?

Many grateful families, friends and former patients have provided for Cincinnati Children's in their will or estate plans.  Leaving a bequest is just one of many planned or deferred giving options. For more information, contact Karen Ecker Kratz,JD, director of gift planning, at (karen.kratz@cchmc.org), 513-636-5683.  

I'd like to plan an event to raise money for Cincinnati Children's. Is there anything I need to know?

Cincinnati Children's is pleased to be considered as the beneficiary for your special event. In order for us to gain a better understanding of your plans, we ask that you please contact Cathy Westrich (cathy.westrich@cchmc.org), 513-636-0918 before you begin coordinating your event. By working together, we can help ensure that your fundraiser is a positive experience for all involved.

Does the hospital accept the donation of used toys?

No. For safety and sanitation reasons, toys and stuffed animal donations must be NEW. DVDs, VHS tapes and books can be gently used, but should be in excellent condition. Avoid toys with many small parts that can be removed, swallowed or inhaled or those with breakable or sharp edges. Toys with violent themes will not be accepted. Also, because we need to inspect gifts for safety and age appropriateness, please do not wrap your toy donations. For more information, please review our overview of Gifts-In-Kind or contact Cathy Westrich (cathy.westrich@cchmc.org), 513-636-0918.

How can I volunteer my time?

Each year hundreds of volunteers give of their time and talents to help raise money for Cincinnati Children's. Among other things, volunteers stuff invitations and mailers, help with set up and clean up for special events and provide general office support. If you would like to donate your time to help raise resources for the hospital, please contact the Department of Development (development@cchmc.org), 513-636-4561. Please note, if you wish to volunteer in the medical center working directly with patients, you must first complete a formal application, personal interview and background check.

Contact Us

Do you have a question that you don't see answered here? Please contact the Department of Development (development@cchmc.org), 513-636-4561.