Mission Cohort, CA
Together for 5 years
Each Cohort lasts five years so relationships can strengthen, processes can develop, and internal structures can be built. Together, Asian Women’s Shelter, First Graduate, and La Cocina meet quarterly to present grant proposals to each other, vote on new grants, share progress updates, and seek advice on new challenges as they build capacity and grow.
The mission of Asian Women’s Shelter is to eliminate domestic violence by promoting the social, economic and political self-determination of women and all survivors of violence and oppression.
Founded 1988
The mission of First Graduate is to help students become the first in their families to graduate from college ready to pursue careers that are meaningful to them.
Founded 2001
The mission of La Cocina is to cultivate low-income food entrepreneurs as they formalize and grow their businesses.
Founded 2005
Long-Term Community Investment
Magic Cabinet prioritizes community-born, led, and serving organizations to build their capacity and accelerate their impact. We believe if given the time, tools, and resources they ask for, the organizations and the communities they serve will flourish.
Capacity Building Projects Overview
An effective nonprofit is more than its programs. Each Cohort has access up to $2.5m through collectively approved capacity-building grants— approximately $500k available each year. Every Cohort member faces unique challenges and opportunities for their organization; that’s why they determine how to leverage Magic Cabinet funds.
Following our Community Input phase, our team dives back into research to connect with nonprofits and select organizations to fund. Our approach focuses on building more open and trusting relationships with communities.
The power of capacity-building investments can’t be understated. See how one of our nonprofit partners incorporated sabbaticals as an investment in their team and community.
Community voices shape every aspect of our work, starting with our engagement process. By prioritizing conversations with community leaders and grassroots organizations, we’re able to identify areas where our grants can make the most impact.