Research shows that matching campaigns can increase total donations by 19%–35%, encouraging donors to give more when their generosity is amplified. Cobb Community Foundation’s proportional match model reflects this research by distributing match dollars based on each nonprofit’s share of total funds raised — encouraging broader participation and larger gifts across the community. (CCF retains none of the donations raised.)
The success of Match Magic 2025 was anchored by Platinum Match Pool Lead Donor Walton Communities, whose generous $50,000 gift seeded the Match Pool in both 2024 and 2025. Additional support from Genuine Parts Company, S.A. White Oil Company, several donor advised fundholders, and other community supporters helped grow the Match Pool to $138,000.
Thanks to the generosity of Stephen W. Imler, who covered printing, mailing, and paid social media costs, the full Match Pool remained intact — maximizing impact for participating nonprofits.
“When our community gives together, the impact is powerful… and we’re honored to support.”
— Matt L. Teague, Director of New Development, Walton Communities
Thank You to Our Print & Distribution Partner
Marietta Daily Journal
The partnership with the Marietta Daily Journal helped highlight the magic of Match Magic 2025.
On launch day, the MDJ distributed the Match Magic Giving Guide — featuring stories from all 27 participating nonprofits — to more than 5,700 households. Throughout the three-week campaign, the publication also featured ads and fundraising updates to help build momentum and community awareness.
At the campaign finale, the MDJ celebrated the sponsors, recognized the participating nonprofits, and highlighted the campaign’s collective impact across Cobb County.
Thank you, Marietta Daily Journal.
$1.7 Million Raised in Just Three Weeks
Cobb Community Foundation’s Match Magic Giveathon concluded on December 2, 2025, with an astounding $1.7 million raised for 27 local nonprofits — more than doubling the previous year’s total and significantly surpassing the campaign’s $1 million goal.
Participating nonprofits collectively raised approximately $1.6 million, with an additional $138,000 in matching funds provided through the generosity of corporate and individual sponsors led by Walton Communities.
Because of this collective generosity, organizations across Cobb County are expanding their impact in critical areas including:
- Food and basic needs
- Education
- Housing
- Healthcare and mental health
- Workforce development
- Animal welfare
Selected from more than 50 applicants, the 27 participating nonprofits received training, storytelling support, and coordinated visibility throughout the campaign. Through strategic email marketing, social media, websites, and local media partnerships, Match Magic amplified each organization’s reach and helped connect nonprofits with both new and existing supporters.
The Results Speak for Themselves
- 93% of nonprofits gained new donors
- 89% reached new audiences
- 78% saw larger gifts from existing supporters
- 96% expressed strong interest in participating again
But beyond the dollars raised, Match Magic 2025 demonstrated the power of community — donors, sponsors, nonprofits, and local leaders coming together to strengthen Cobb County for everyone.
Success Story Spotlight
Matthew 25:40 Car Care Ministry
One of Match Magic 2025’s top fundraising organizations, Matthew 25:40 Car Care Ministry raised $385,327 toward a $400,000 goal to help complete a multi-use building that will include a nonprofit auto repair facility on the campus of Macland Community Church.
Led by David and Rebecca McCoy, the ministry provides affordable auto repairs for underprivileged families — helping ensure continued access to jobs, school, healthcare, and food. A private donor match further energized the campaign, demonstrating the power of Match Magic to multiply community generosity.
Success Story Spotlight
Cobb County Bar Association Children’s Emergency Fund
Through Match Magic 2025, the Cobb County Bar Association Children’s Emergency Fund raised $35,145 to help remove financial barriers to education for students and families experiencing homelessness.
The campaign generated more funding than any of the organization’s three annual fundraisers — another example of how Match Magic empowers nonprofits to expand both visibility and impact.
For more information on Match Magic 2025 click here.
