A neighborhood built on resilience, faith, and family. 

● About

The Magnolia and Castalia neighborhoods are among the most historically significant Black communities in Memphis — shaped by veterans, educators, tradesmen, and families who built generational wealth from porch steps and pulpits.

1940s - Veterans Return Home

Black WWII veterans return to Memphis and purchase homes in Magnolia and Castalia, building one of the city's most resilient Black neighborhoods.

1960s - A Community Comes of Age

Multigenerational families plant deep roots — front porches, corner churches, neighborhood schools, and local businesses become the architecture of belonging.

1990s - Weathering the Storm

Through disinvestment and economic shifts, residents organize, preserve historic homes, and pass legacy properties to a new generation.

Today - A New Chapter

MCCA leads a resident-driven revitalization — restoring homes, growing wealth, and transforming a former elementary school into a cultural and economic hub.

The case for investment is clear — and so is the opportunity.

Behind every statistic is a neighbor, a homeowner, a child, an elder. These numbers shape our strategy and ground our work in measurable, transformative change.

  • Poverty Rate - 32.3%

    Nearly 1 in 3 residents live below the federal poverty line.

  • Median Household Income - $29,492

    Less than half of the Memphis metropolitan median.

  • Median Age - 41.4

    A community of established families and longtime homeowners.

  • Black Community - 91%

    One of the most historically and culturally rooted neighborhoods in Memphis.

  • High School Graduates+ - 78.7%

    A strong foundation we are committed to expanding.

  • Nonprofit Status - 501(c)(3)

    Donations are tax-deductible and grant-eligible.