OUR HISTORY

In 2013, God gave our founder, Lawrence Sheffield, a crystal-clear vision: a workshop full of young men coming to faith in Jesus while training their hands and minds to care for themselves and their families. That calling became the foundation of a grassroots effort originally known as Magic City Woodworks.

It all began with two young men—Demetrius Alvis and Quinaruse Johnson—in a borrowed garage: the Lawson family’s one-car garage in Hoover, Alabama. The Lawsons, moved by the mission, graciously opened their home to make room for the vision. What started as a small operation with a few tools and a lot of faith quickly became something far more powerful: a movement of purpose-filled work, intentional discipleship, and life restoration.

Within a year, the ministry had outgrown the garage. Materials and products were being stored anywhere we could find space—under tarps, in closets, and in borrowed storage. We began fervently praying for more space, but without a track record, budget, or insurance, no one would lease to us.

Then God moved again—this time through the Cathey family, who felt led to honor their late father, Dale Cathey, and his heart for ministry in Birmingham. They donated their large commercial warehouse to our growing program, and we are forever grateful for their obedience and generosity.

Through the faithful support of donors, impact investors, and a bold, business-minded approach, that small garage effort has grown into Manufacture Good—a state-of-the-art training campus in the heart of downtown Birmingham. It’s taken years of grit, prayer, and provision to get here, but the mission remains the same: to make disciples while making good things.

In the early days, we relied on volunteers and small donations to keep the lights on. Then we discovered something powerful: by building and selling purpose-filled products, we could not only sustain the mission—we could amplify it. Our work became a platform to share stories of transformation, reach new audiences, and engage in meaningful social impact.

Today, our handcrafted furniture and products are found in homes, churches, and businesses across the country. But more importantly, the young men who build them are becoming husbands, fathers, craftsmen, and leaders. We’ve had the honor of sharing our story with thousands through partnerships, speaking engagements, and social enterprise.

After 12 years, we remain rooted in our calling. We believe God will continue to bring men to faith through the work of their hands. We’re not just building products—we’re building people. And like Jesus called fishermen by the sea, we keep casting the net, trusting Him to fill it.