Finding Purpose Through Giving: Don’s Journey With CMN

After nearly 40 years in leadership roles at Otis Elevator Company, Dell Inc., and TE Connectivity, Don Sites wasn’t actively looking for a new purpose. But one conversation changed everything. While speaking with a member of the Penn State College of Medicine’s Development team, he learned about the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. That discussion introduced him to something deeply personal—the opportunity to join the advisory board of the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) in Hershey. 

Having lost his own son, Don understood the emotional and financial challenges families face during medical crises. The chance to support them in a meaningful way resonated with him, and in 2021, he joined CMN’s board as a member-at-large, driven by a mission to help children and families in need. With years of experience in strategic planning, process improvement, and corporate finance, Don knew he could make a real difference. By putting his skills to work, he’s helping to secure funding, improve patient care, and create better outcomes for children and families who depend on the care of the Children’s Hospital.  

A Mission to Make an Impact

For Don, the work has been deeply rewarding. Collaborating with like-minded individuals and organizations, he’s helped build a powerful network committed to meaningful change and giving the gift of growing up. One of his greatest joys is connecting with donors—not just to raise funds, but to show them the real impact of their generosity.

He quickly recognized that people don’t just want to give; they want to see their support in action. He never hesitates to “dial for dollars,” reminding donors how vital their support is to the families CMN serves. He talks about how their contributions help fund technology in the NICU that gives tiny babies a better chance at survival at earlier ages or the new high-tech pediatric ambulance. And beyond big-ticket items, Don shares the importance of covering the smaller, often overlooked needs—like helping families with urgent medication costs for their children.

Seeing the Difference Firsthand

Over time, Don has witnessed remarkable success stories. He’s met children who were once so tiny that a wedding ring could slip up their arms—now running, laughing, and thriving at CMN events. Families share their journeys, shedding light on how CMN’s support has helped them through some of their hardest moments.

For Don, it’s humbling to know his efforts, along with those of so many others, help lift burdens for these families. It’s not just about medical care; it’s about ensuring parents can focus on their child’s recovery instead of worrying about basic needs like meals, transportation, or family-centered wellness services.

Growth, Renewal, and Looking Ahead

Early this spring, Don toured the Children’s Hospital for the first time since its three-floor expansion in 2020. Thanks to CMN’s donors, the hospital has funded NICU isolettes, AngelEye bedside digital cameras, pediatric ambulances, life-saving surgical equipment, staff positions, and more. The Wall of Hope showcases NICU babies, highlighting the impact of the Children’s Hospital’s expert care and the community that makes it possible. The progress was astonishing—a symbol of growth, renewal, and possibility.

Don takes great pride in knowing CMN, its donors, partners, and volunteers are making a real difference. As the season continues to bloom, so does his sense of fulfillment. CMN has helped countless children and families thrive, and he knows the impact of this work will continue for years to come.