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FOUNDER · ADVOCATE · CGI FELLOW

Magic where
it's needed

most.

In 2014, I put on a princess dress and walked into a hospital with one question: what if we could make it a less scary place for the kids there? That idea became A Moment of Magic, a national nonprofit bringing play, mental health support, and connection to medically vulnerable children and their families.

Kylee McGrane-Zarnoch making hand hearts at the New York Stock Exchange

Advocacy and research.

Kylee McGrane-Zarnoch with a young girl on the steps of New York City Hall

RESEARCH

Mapping the gaps in emotional care for kids with serious illness.

Kylee McGrane-Zarnoch on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, advocating for childhood cancer policy

POLICY

Making emotional care a non-negotiable part of pediatric treatment.

Kylee McGrane-Zarnoch at the Clinton Global Initiative

GLOBAL CONVERSATIONS

Putting children's health on the global agenda.

WHY IT MATTERS

Care is more
than medicine.

Kids with critical or chronic illness are 7 times more likely to face a mental health crisis than their peers, and most hospitals are stretched thin on emotional support. Our programs fill that gap with play, connection, and joy.

MORE ABOUT A MOMENT OF MAGIC →

The programs.

A Moment of Magic volunteers in costume visiting children

MAGIC MAKERS

Volunteers become beloved characters and caring companions.

A Moment of Magic volunteers and children holding copies of Your Magic

EXPRESS, CREATE, HEAL

Mental health support and education, delivered through play.

A Moment of Magic volunteers reading with children

AMOM UNLIMITED

Virtual programming that reaches kids wherever they are.

THE BOOK · BY KYLEE MCGRANE-ZARNOCH

Every child has
their own

magic.

Your Magic is my picture book about the special qualities that make every child shine. Its 30+ characters were co-created with A Moment of Magic volunteers and the kids we serve.

★ 2025 Independent Press Award, Distinguished Favorite
★ 2024 NYC Big Book Award, Distinguished Favorite

Kylee McGrane-Zarnoch holding copies of her picture book, Your Magic

Help bring the magic further.

Whether you want to partner, sponsor, start a chapter, or bring me in to share the story, I'd love to talk.

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