Our Six Core Pillars
Education
We invest in education that prepares the next generation for careers and leadership in a changing economy, supporting initiatives from K-12 to higher education.
Workforce Development
We create pathways from training to meaningful employment that builds household wealth and community stability through strategic career programs.
Nutrition & Food Security
We address food insecurity and nutrition access directly so every family can thrive, not just survive, eliminating food deserts in our neighborhoods.
Community Safety
We support community-based solutions that make our neighborhoods secure places where families want to live and invest, fostering a safer environment for all.
Elder Care & Senior Services
We honor those who built Birmingham by ensuring dignified aging, comprehensive care, caregiver support, and awareness for conditions like Alzheimer's.
Capacity Building
We strengthen the nonprofit ecosystem through capacity building, enabling smaller organizations to amplify their impact through training and resource sharing.
Our Mission
Magic City Giveback exists to strengthen and uplift the Greater Birmingham community by investing in the foundations of a thriving society. We partner with local organizations, schools, and community leaders to deliver comprehensive programs across education, workforce development, nutrition security, community safety, elder care, and nonprofit capacity building. Through strategic collaboration and fiscal stewardship, we transform resources into lasting impact, ensuring every resident has the opportunity to learn, grow, work, age with dignity, and thrive in safe, supported neighborhoods.
Our Vision
We envision a Greater Birmingham where every neighborhood flourishes, every generation is empowered, and every resident has equitable access to the resources needed for success. Magic City Giveback will be the catalyst that transforms Birmingham into a model city where educational excellence meets economic opportunity, where seniors age with honor and care, where families have access to nutritious food and safe communities, and where local nonprofits have the capacity to maximize their impact.
Our Approach
Magic City Giveback operates as a fiscal agent and strategic partner for community initiatives.
By managing the administrative, financial, and reporting requirements for various programs, we allow our partners to focus on what they do best, serving the community.
Our robust management
structure ensures accountability, transparency, and measurable results for every dollar invested. We write MOUs, manage compliance, and handle all reporting to ensure that funds are used effectively to drive real change.
About Us
Birmingham's nickname "Magic City" came from its rapid growth, seemingly appearing overnight. Magic City Giveback embodies this spirit of transformation and possibility. We recognize that Birmingham faces unique challenges, yet we see its incredible assets: resilient communities, dedicated nonprofits, and residents who refuse to give up on their city. Our work is rooted in the belief that strategic, coordinated investment across multiple sectors creates the conditions for sustainable community transformation.
Leadership
Rachel G. Gandy, MSHRM, DBA(c)
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Rachel brings over 13 years of multidisciplinary leadership experience to Magic City Giveback, where she has demonstrated exceptional skill in grant writing and strategic fundraising. Her extensive background spans multiple sectors, allowing her to apply diverse perspectives and proven strategies to advance the organization's mission and strengthen its impact within the community.
(✓) Strategic Leadership: Over a decade of experience in nonprofit management and government relations.
(✓) Fundraising Expert: Proven track record of securing funding and increasing donor retention (achieved 20% increase at Teach for America).
(✓) Political Experience: extensive background serving with Congresswoman Sewell and the Office of the Governor of Alabama.
(✓) Academic Excellence: Doctoral Candidate in Business Administration and holds a Master of Science in Human Resource Management.
Partner With Us
Join us in building Birmingham's future. Whether you are a donor, a nonprofit partner, or a community leader, we want to work with you.