Contest to benefit Miracle Network

To raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network, LaFayette Wal-Mart employees have had photo contests and egg decorating contests — but they still wanted something bigger.

In search of an idea that would attract more attention and raise more money, they decided that a popular teen singer and actress would provide perfect inspiration for their next fundraiser — a Hannah Montana look-alike contest.

“This is a great way for Children’s Miracle Network sponsors to raise money for their local children’s hospital,” said Magen Hooper, miracle network coordinator for Erlanger. “They are always coming up with fun and creative ideas to help raise the most money they can.”

Hannah Montana is a character from The Disney Channel show played by Miley Cyrus. The show focuses on Miley Stewart, who lives as an average teen and doubles as a famous pop singer named Hannah Montana.

The Emmy Award-nominated show has received high ratings, and Hannah Montana concert tickets often sell out.

Wal-Mart employees said they hope that popularity will translate into a successful fundraiser.

The LaFayette store is one of 18 in the area to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network, a coalition of children’s hospitals that, in part, provides medical research and preventive education for children and their families.

T.C. Thompson aims to provide care for sick children regardless of financial situation.

This year’s goal is for all the Wal-Marts in the United States and Canada to raise a total of $15 million, Ms. Hooper said. Last year, the 18 area Wal-Marts and one Sam’s Club store raised more than $185,000 for the cause, she said. All the money raised goes back to the hospital.

“It goes to items that have been cut from the budget or we can’t afford,” Ms. Hooper said.

Anita Fields, program coordinator at the LaFayette store, said her Wal-Mart raised $15,000 last year. Ms. Fields said she enjoys helping raise money.

“A friend of mine, her daughter was born premature on Valentine’s Day,” she said. “She lived exactly two months and never even got to leave the hospital. Everything I do, I do for her.”

Children ages 5 to 13 can enter the look-alike contest. Early registration is $10; those who sign up the day of the event will be charged $20. All contestants will model their Hannah Montana attire and have a few minutes to convince judges why they should win, Ms. Fields said. Winners will receive prices.

Officials said the rewards will be priceless.

“Touching these people in these communities is very valuable,” Ms. Hooper said.