In the spirit of giving this holiday season and beyond, we wanted to create a list of nonprofit organizations that are either set in Birmingham or have top members that live here in the Magic City. Although 2020 has been a year filled with challenges, the reward of giving remains.
Magic City Woodworks
This unique organization gives unemployed men “stuck in a rut” an opportunity through a paid 6-month apprenticeship. Magic City Woodworks is a wood and metal shop in the heart of downtown Birmingham that offers beautiful wood pieces with an impactful story.
photo from Magic City Woodworks Facebook page
Urban Avenues
Urban Avenues’ mission is to bring together disconnected communities by inspiring curiosity and to make beautiful things together. They create ventures to add life to the city through art, conversation, and meals. This organization has a passion for people and recognizes the importance of community.
photo from Urban Avenues Facebook
Mwana Villages
Although this nonprofit’s location is far from Birmingham, the U.S. Director, Wellon Bridgers, resides here in the city. Located in the Republic of Congo, Mwana Villages’ mission is to provide refuge for orphans and vulnerable children with an approach that prioritizes family preservation.
photo from Mwana Villages Facebook page
Jefferson County Memorial Project
This grassroots coalition has four main goals that consist of researching documented racial terror victims, educating the public on this history, placing historical markers, and advocating for reform where racial injustice still exists today. Their hope of JCMP is for Alabamians to confront history and reconcile for a better future.
photo from JCMP Facebook page
The Nature Conservancy
For those that are passionate about the Earth, The Nature Conservancy is an organization that is perfect for you. They work to protect Alabama for people and nature to ensure a future where both can thrive.
Jimmie Hale Mission
The Jimmie Hale Mission is an organization that has been a Birmingham staple since 1944. They help men afflicted by homelessness in downtown Birmingham through education remediation, job readiness, and spiritual support.
photo from JHM Facebook page
First Light
First Light is a center for homeless women and children in the Birmingham area, whose mission is to create hospitality in a safe and nurturing community and to allow its members to reach their full potential. They have an emergency shelter, permanent housing programs, and other projects to support the women in the community.
photo from First Light Facebook page
Community Kitchens
Serving lunch 365 days a year, The Community Kitchens is an organization that opens its doors every day to anyone hungry. By serving breakfast during the week in addition to their lunch service, they amount to serving over 65,000 meals a year. Everyone is welcomed and treated as a guest when going to the Community Kitchens.
photo from Community Kitchens Facebook page
Firehouse Ministries
This nonprofit’s mission is to provide homeless men in the Birmingham area, age 18 and above, a caring environment and supportive services to help break them out of the cycle of poverty. Firehouse Ministries treat all guests with dignity, provide those guests accessible and clean facilities, and empowers all guests to achieve their life goals.
While 2020 might have been the hardest year yet, these great organizations continue to make our city a better place. Whether you’re wanting to volunteer more during the new year, or simply want to donate to a Birmingham non-profit, these listed are just a few of the great philanthropic organizations to consider.