What is Magic Moments?
Magic Moments is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization chartered under the laws of the State of Alabama to make non-medical gifts to children who have life-threatening illnesses or life-altering medical conditions that significantly impact a child’s major daily activities. Our sole purpose is to make the lifelong wishes and dreams come true for seriously-ill children.
How do you identify children who qualify for a magic moment?
Referrals are received from Children's Hospital, from medical personnel throughout the state, or from the child's relatives or friends. To be eligible, a child must be a resident of Alabama. Wishes – also known as magic moments – are granted to children ages 4-18 who meet our medical criteria.
How does a child receive a magic moment?
An application is given to the child’s parents, and when completed, is returned to our office. A medical form is then sent to the child's physician, and once it is returned, the request is presented to the Magic Moments Board of Directors for approval. When the magic moment is approved, it is assigned to a volunteer who contacts the family and fulfills the request.
What kinds of magic moments are granted?
Just as each child is different, so is each magic moment! Whether it is a trip to Disney World, receiving a computer, going on a shopping spree or meeting a favorite celebrity, each wish is special and unique.
How many magic moments are granted?
Magic Moments grants approximately 200 wishes each year, and since our inception in 1984, we have granted over 3,900 magic moments! We grant only one request per child, and children who have already received a wish from another wish-granting organization are not eligible for a magic moment.
How are the magic moments funded?
Magic Moments is not a United Way agency and is not affiliated with any other wish-granting organization. We rely totally on the generosity of individuals, corporations, foundations, civic groups and fundraising efforts for financial support.
What percentage of your income goes toward your mission?
76% of our annual revenue is allocated to accomplishing our mission – granting wishes. 17% is allocated to fundraising, and 7% is used for administrative costs.
Where is Magic Moments located?
Our office is located in Birmingham at the Magnolia Plaza Building at 2112 11th Avenue South, Suite 219.
Who operates Magic Moments?
Magic Moments is governed by a 53-member Board of Directors, including Regional Boards in Montgomery and Mobile. We have a professional staff of four, including an Executive Director, two Wish Coordinators, and a Community Relations Coordinator. Additionally, we are fortunate to have the support of numerous volunteers in the community and throughout the state that assist us in carrying out our mission.
How can Magic Moments be contacted?
You may contact us in person or by mail, telephone, fax or email:
Mailing Address
1600 7th Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35233
Street Address:
2112 11th Avenue South, Suite 219
Birmingham, AL 35205
Phone: 205-939-9372
Fax: 205-939-6717
Email: info@magicmoments.org
