Koala Corps was born from the deeply personal journey of its founders, Dan and Ciera Granger. Their daughter Shae was born with multiple cognitive disabilities and complex medical issues, resulting  in a nearly six-month-long stay at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA).

During those long, difficult months, Dan and Ciera witnessed something heartbreaking: too many babies and children crying alone, with not enough hands to hold them. CHLA is an extraordinary place, filled with dedicated professionals. But the reality is that there simply aren’t enough staff or volunteers to provide comfort to every child in need .

"Children's Hospital of Los Angeles is a miraculous place, and the staff is incredible. However, there are not enough staff or volunteers to hold every baby that is alone." — Dan Granger, Co-Founder 

What started as a personal promise became a movement.

"I told myself I would come back and hug those babies that were alone." — Ciera Granger, Co-Founder

At Koala Corps, we understand that no matter how much parents want to be by their child’s side, it’s impossible to be there 100% of the time. That’s why our volunteers step up: to ensure that no child goes without arms to hold them during their hospital stay.

Science proves that human touch is essential for babies and children in medical care, leading to:

Pain relief
Stronger immune function
Improved neurodevelopment

Reduced stress levels

Better emotional security

And every baby needs to be held. Day and Night.