About the Merchants Association of Columbia County, Inc.
We are a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) founded in 1962. Our mission is to strengthen families and youth across the CSRA through education, community engagement, and support for local nonprofits—funded primarily by the Columbia County Fair and other community events.
Our Mission
Youth Education
Scholarships, classroom resources, and hands-on learning experiences that help students thrive.
Community Support
Board-approved funding for 501(c)(3) organizations that serve children and families in need across the CSRA.
Agricultural Heritage
Programs and events—including the Columbia County Fair—that preserve and share our community’s agricultural roots.
Our Story
- 1962: MACCGA established as a volunteer-run charitable organization.
- 2004: First Columbia County Fair—now our primary fundraiser for local causes.
- 2024: $175,000 contributed to the Children’s Hospital of Georgia for PICU expansion.
- 2025: Golabchi Education Center completed; free school field trips begin Fall 2025.
Golabchi Education Center
A state-of-the-art taxidermy museum and learning space featuring one of the world’s largest private wildlife collections—donated by Soudy Golabchi. Beginning Fall 2025, MACCGA will host free, standards-aligned field trips for local schools.
How We Support the Community
MACCGA allocates fair proceeds through a formal application and board approval process. We prioritize projects that positively impact children and families in the CSRA.
Funding Criteria
- Applicant is a 501(c)(3) or public entity
- Direct benefit to children and families in the CSRA
- Meaningful, measurable community impact
Recent Partnerships
- Children’s Hospital of Georgia — PICU expansion
- Child Enrichment — child advocacy & services
- Ronald McDonald House Charities — family housing
- Ft. Eisenhower Christmas House — holiday support
- ReStart Augusta — beds for families & veterans
- Columbia County Cares — local food bank
Get Involved
Volunteer at events, partner with us, or plan a school visit to the Golabchi Education Center.
Questions about MACCGA? Contact us—we’re here to help.
Impact at a Glance
$175,000
Children’s Hospital of Georgia (PICU, 2024)
$250K+
Scholarships via Lane–Davis Golf Tournament
Since 1962
Volunteer-powered service to the CSRA
Governance & Transparency
MACCGA is a Georgia-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit led by a volunteer Board of Directors. All contributions to partner organizations are reviewed and approved by the Board following our eligibility criteria and community impact guidelines.
- Volunteer-run organization
- Board-approved allocations
- Focus on measurable community impact