Our Story

The MAGIC CITY TOOLBANK serves community-based organizations by providing tools, equipment & expertise to empower their most ambitious goals.

Our Beginnings

The ToolBank concept was created in Atlanta in 1991 with the idea of neighbors helping neighbors by giving their time and loaning their tools to do home repairs for their neighbors in need. In 2008, ToolBank USA was launched to replicate the model and establish ToolBanks throughout the United States. The ToolBank’s signature lending model allows charities to focus on their mission by relying on ToolBanks to provide, store, and repair critically-needed tools and equipment. ToolBanks share their resources with charitable groups so they can equip volunteers to efficiently complete work in less time, with the right tools, at minimal costs. Using ToolBank tools, community-based organizations avoid the expense of purchasing, repairing, and storing tools. Each year, the ToolBank recognizes a ToolBank Affiliate who has been outstanding in furthering the mission and vision of the ToolBank.

Our Mission & Values

OUR MISSION

The mission of the ToolBank is to serve community-based organizations by providing the tools, equipment, and expertise needed to empower their most ambitious goals. Our vision is to equip all communities with tools for change.

TOOLBANK VALUES

We are a values-based organization that serves our affiliates, member agencies, volunteers, community partners, associates, and suppliers with open hearts and equity.

RESPECT & INCLUSION

We believe in diverse and inclusive participation in our communities and we intentionally strive to create a welcoming environment for all people, regardless of race, sex, age, gender identity, sexual orientation or creed.

INTEGRITY & TRANSPARENCY

We are committed to the highest standards of personal and professional integrity. We support transparency in our financial and operating standards and commit to accountability.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

We are committed to accessibility, professionalism, and open communication focused on those we serve. Our goal is to exceed the expectations of all member agencies, volunteers, donors, and visitors.

TOOL STEWARDSHIP

We manage ToolBank resources responsibly to maintain inventory value, promote long-term viability, and ensure responsible usage and care of the tools by the borrower.

SAFE USAGE OF TOOLBANK TOOLS

We believe in our responsibility to foster and maintain strong relationships with our member agencies that promote responsible usage and care of ToolBank tools. We acknowledge our duty to promote safe and responsible usage and care of the tools.

COMMUNITY BUILDING

We have a responsibility to collaborate with our partners to best support the interests of the communities in which we serve.

Our Staff

Laura Quenelle

Executive Director

Quenelle has more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit development, community planning, and organizational operations. Most recently, she provided development services to a startup nonprofit in Bessemer, Alabama, focused on affordable housing and community development. She previously served as Donor and Administrative Manager for Main Street Alabama, the statewide affiliate of the National Main Street Center, which promotes downtown revitalization efforts throughout the country.

Her earlier professional experience includes roles in municipal planning and nonprofit leadership, including service as a senior planner with the City of Miami Beach and leadership positions with preservation and design-focused nonprofits in Alabama.

Quenelle holds a Master of Science in Historic Preservation from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Historic Preservation from the Savannah College of Art & Design. She holds the Main Street America Revitalization Professional credential.

A native of the Birmingham area, Quenelle loves traveling, thrift shopping, attending concerts, exploring historic neighborhoods, and spending time with her two teenage children. She is a long-time volunteer with Girl Scouts, serving as troop leader and summer camp director.

Favorite Tool: Sledge Hammer