Background
Christmas 2025 will mark the 30th anniversary of this project on AU’s campus. It was started in 1995 in the Department of Art + Design, but quickly grew to involve the entire SC School of the Arts. In recent years, there has been increasing interest on campus and in the community with various individuals, clubs, departments, offices, and local businesses either contributing financially or sponsoring children directly. Over the years, thousands of children in upstate SC have been touched by this ministry. The number of children served has grown steadily – from 10 in the initial year of this project to an average of 175 in recent years.Who We Serve
Working through a network of AU alumni who are teaching art in upstate elementary schools, MAGI identifies children in need. Many of these teachers were enthusiastic student volunteers for this project during their time in college. These teachers work with the guidance counselors to generate profiles that are returned to the project leader at AU. In addition, MAGI also annually sponsors children from the Helping Hands organization. Helping Hands is an emergency shelter and foster home for abused and neglected children in Anderson, Oconee, and Pickens Counties. MAGI also partners with A Child’s Haven in Greenville, an organization that treats children with developmental delays as a result of limited resources, abuse, or neglect. One Child’s Story
There are hundreds of children in need within a stone’s throw of campus, but this young boy’s story speaks to the core of MAGI’s mission. Quentin was a student at a local elementary school. One cold winter day, an AU student teacher noticed he was wearing a pair of men’s jeans cinched up with a belt no socks. When asked where his socks were, Quentin’s reply was, “my sister needed them.” In addition to gifts of joy, MAGI always provides gifts of comfort as simple as socks.How It Works
The profiles collected from various sources detail each child’s age, gender, color preferences, needs and – the fun part – what they want from Santa. All children (and their siblings regardless of age) receive clothing, shoes, and coats. Educational toys, books and items that promote physical activity are also included. The gifts are wrapped, tagged according to the school or agency’s specifications, and pickup/delivery is arranged. A key aspect is that this process is anonymous so that the parents can enjoy the gift of playing Santa. In some circumstances, gift cards for food or household items are included for the adults.Unique to AU
MAGI is a grassroots charity born on AU’s campus. It is student, alumni, faculty, and staff driven. Unlike many charities where only a percentage makes it to the intended designees, every cent raised is spent on specific children in our community. How to Volunteer
MAGI is a grassroots charity born on AU’s campus. It is student, alumni, faculty, and staff driven. Unlike many charities where only a percentage makes it to the intended designees, every cent raised is spent on specific children in our community.Volunteer Sign-Up →