MEET THE TEAM

Click on each of our wonderful leaders to find out a little more about them and what gifts they bring to Grace Klein Community.

Jenny Waltman

FOUNDER, CEO & CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

Jenny began a friendship with Jesus when she was five years old and she has been on the ride of a lifetime. If only she had known what she was saying “yes” to when she started praying about providing food support to Birmingham families.

A graduate of Samford University, insurance adjuster for six years, a bookkeeper, an entrepreneur, with her husband Jason, through Grace Klein Construction, Inc., a mama to two biological children and many others, a writer and avid reader, and a servant leader of Grace Klein Community as Director of the Board, her journey is beautifully amazing, stretching and fulfilling.

She serves behind the scenes, in a daily capacity, with Grace Klein Community to propel vision, develop structures, oversee record keeping and non-profit compliance, and assist in community support advocacy, volunteer engagement and relevant education regarding combating food waste, early church principles and resourcefulness.

“The moment we begin walking in a relationship with Jesus, He changes everything. We start to see what He sees, desire to love how He loves and realize that the moments we are the most fulfilled are the moments when we are giving ourselves away. Come join us in an incredible adventure of life on mission.”

“God’s plan is to make known his secret to his people, this rich and glorious secret which he has for all peoples. And the secret is that Christ is in you, which means that you will share in the glory of God.” – Colossians 1:27

Natalie King

Chief Operating Officer and Director of Advancement

Natalie King, a native of South Africa, traveled to Birmingham, Alabama, under a two month commitment to advocate for Kwathu Children’s Home in Livingstone, Zambia. With the request and advocacy of Grace Klein Community, she extended her stay, working with Grace Klein Community through an R1 Visa, twice renewed, and now a green card, where she is in line and named as successor of the organization.

With her initiative and work ethic, she has held almost every role in the organization and trained the majority of new hires. She began grant writing for the organization in 2018 and has secured 758,742.74 in grant funding from 2018-2023, with a record breaking year anticipated in 2024, where her efforts will more than double those combined years. With organizational growth, Natalie established the Christmas, School and Shoe programs which successfully operate, co-leads a team of seven liaisons focusing on engaging churches, businesses, non-profits, schools, sustainability and food donors in Grace Klein Community’s efforts to impact the state of Alabama. With the growth, she has been a key player in moving from antiquated paper systems to online systems, implementing customer relationship management through Monday.com, developing company protocols, recruiting staff, overseeing global partner connections as well as global team travel, and representing the organization through various media and speaking engagement opportunities.

During her ten years of service with Grace Klein Community, she has led the organizational growth where she currently provides executive oversight for a $20 million combined cash and in-kind budget which includes the operation a robust food rescue program, FeedBHM, providing food support to almost 20,000 individuals every week. For the last six years, Grace Klein Community has held the Guidestar Platinum Seal of Transparency for financial stewardship and responsibility as well as a 4 star rating through Charity Navigator, recognized as an organization exceeding industry standards and outperforming most charities in its cause.

In addition, Natalie and her husband Jackson, along with their identical twin boys, are house hosts for one of Grace Klein Community’s homes where they host national and global overnight visitors, community gatherings, diverse ladies events, Bible study and worship nights, college nights, and other intentional dinners. Called to Birmingham, AL, Natalie is a model of servant leadership, a community advocate and organizer, and gifted in uniting people across diverse socio-economic, cultural and generational divides to bring collaboration and team work to our city.

Desiree James

Administrative Assistant

Desiree James is a passionate and purpose-driven administrative professional who thrives in roles that allow her to help and serve others with excellence and intention. A proud first-generation college graduate, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Christian leadership with a Minor in Counseling from Ecclesia College in Springdale, Arkansas achieving this milestone in May of 2020. She has years of experience in administration and customer service. Desiree views administrative work as ministry—an opportunity to create order, support others, and reflect God’s love through service. Her work ethic is guided by Colossians 3:23, which reminds her, “Put your heart and soul into everything that you do, as though you are doing it for the Lord himself and not merely for others.” She approaches each task believing even the smallest acts of selflessness can make a lasting impact. Every little thing matters a lot! Whether coordinating behind the scenes or offering a word of encouragement, Desiree is committed to lifting up those around her and fostering an environment rooted in compassion, integrity, and grace. In every season, Desiree seeks to live out Matthew 5:16—“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Her heart’s desire is for everyone to experience the same love, joy, peace, and freedom that she has had the privilege of experiencing through Jesus. She is a devoted member of her church where she serves in multiple areas including children’s ministry and worship team. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband Jason, traveling, being outdoors, reading a good book and playing board games with her friends. “Keep your thoughts continually fixed on all that is authentic and real, honorable and admirable, beautiful and respectful, pure and holy, merciful and kind. And fasten your thoughts on every glorious work of God, praising him always.” -Philippians 4:8

Josh Key

FOOD HUB COORDINATOR

Daniela Goulsby

PROGRAM COORDINATOR

Daniela works as a Program Coordinator, coordinating all the distribution outreach programs such as our Diapers and Wipes program through our partnership with Bundles of Hope, the Give and Take room, School supplies, Christmas distribution and our Shoe program. She oversees operations at the Community Outreach Hall at our Morgan location from donation intake, processing and redistributing donations, and managing volunteers alongside the team onsite. In addition to these roles, she directs the Elevate Internship program for high school students in the summer.

She graduated high school in 2012 and became a mom and wife shortly after. She dedicated her early life to raising three kids as a stay-at-home mom. In the summer of 2018, she and her husband felt the Lord leading them to join a pastor from their home church in Tennessee to move to Alabama and help start a church plant in Birmingham. After much hesitation and witnessing all the doors closing for their family in Tennessee, they stepped out in faith and said “Yes” to the unknown. Through the move, they found Grace Klein Community and jumped right in to serve as volunteers in 2019. Daniela’s family, who migrated to the United States from Mexico, benefited from organizations similar to Grace Klein, serving her family with clothing, food boxes, rides to school and doctor’s appointments. Because of this, Grace Klein felt like home to her and what better way to give back than to serve in the same capacity in which her family received help growing up.

In the summer of 2022, she joined the Grace Klein staff and has loved furthering her work, creating and curating programs to help meet the needs of families who walk through our doors.

Ollie Kelly

INTERSHIP COORDINATOR

DonDee Osburn

FINANCE & OPERATIONS COORDINATOR

DonDee Osburn serves as the Finance and Operations Coordinator at Grace Klein Community, where she has been contributing to the organization’s efforts since 2020. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Faulkner University and has a foundational background in social work, which informs her thoughtful and people-focused approach to leadership. With experience in human resource management, operations, and data analytics, DonDee works behind the scenes to help strengthen systems, support team growth, and encourage steady organizational development. She cares deeply about community empowerment and long-term impact and aims to align daily operations with the mission of building relationships, sharing resources, and fostering restoration within communities.

Lindsay Glass

PARTNER RELATIONS & EVENTS COORDINATOR

Lindsay Glass is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in customer service and management roles. She previously served as the Associate Director of Customer Experience at Mspark (formerly Mailsouth) in Helena, AL. Lindsay is adept at offering practical solutions to client challenges, collaborating effectively with others, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Lindsay is married to Andrew and has two children, Gabe and Makindsay. She is deeply engaged in community service. She has volunteered as an administrative assistant at Aaron’s Staff Respite Care, Inc. since 2010 and has served in various roles in the local church for most of her life. She initially learned about Grace Klein Community when a friend introduced her to the “No Safety Pins” trading event in 2016. Since that time, she followed Grace Klein Community closely via social media and was captivated by their zeal for Jesus and community service. She dreamed she would one day work full-time for the organization. Lindsay has a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. With exceptional computer skills, particularly in Microsoft Office programs, Lindsay leverages technology to streamline processes and enhance productivity. She is known for her commitment to accuracy, efficiency, and proactive problem-solving. “Grace Klein Community puts Jesus at the forefront of everything they do. They serve the community with excellence. Being a part of this organization has been transformational for me and my family. We have seen first-hand the benefits of living in community and being a part of the church, outside the walls of the church. We have seen Gods hand at work daily, and we are honored to serve Him alongside so many other Jesus-followers.”

Carla Phillips

SERVE TEAM & VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR

Carla coordinates our many volunteers and serve teams which ensures Grace Klein Community operates efficiently. Whether a team of thirty landscaping at one of our community homes or a small group organizing our food shelves, she will be happily serving alongside our volunteers. During the Covid-19 season, Carla’s role shifted to Drive-Thru trainer, where she implements and trains new volunteers on a consistent food distribution drive thru process upholding the highest in CDC safety protocols.

A native of Birmingham, AL, Carla received her undergraduate and master’s degree in Elementary/Early Childhood Education from the University of Montevallo. She snagged her a Good Ole’ Boy from her hometown and has been happily married for 34 years to Doug Phillips. She is mother of two boys, Brooks and Tyler and three“dog”ters Sadie, Meeko and Chloe.

Carla’s path to GKC took many roads. She began her career as a 3rd grade teacher at Central Park Christian School, and was promoted to her most important job, a “stay-at-home-mom” where she is blessed to have raised two upstanding young men. In 1995, she certified as a fitness instructor and successfully ran her own Jazzercise Fitness Center for 25 years. She still enjoys working out several times a week. Carla dabbled in retail sales and administrative work while looking for the perfect job fit… something meaningful, purposeful, enjoyable, a place she could look forward to each day. God led her to GKC.

“I am truly blessed to be a part of the GKC family. Each day I work with people I genuinely love and I am able to share food, friendship, advice, love and prayer. The best part is that I receive as much as I give. God strengthens me through those I meet. Sharing comes full circle. What a gift from God.”

Tim Beck

COMMUNITY LIAISON

Linda Habig

FOOD DONOR LIAISON

As the Food Donor Liaison at Grace Klein Community, Linda is responsible for maintaining strong relationships with current food donors and cultivating new partnerships with potential contributors. She ensures the donation process runs smoothly by regularly checking in with donors, delivering tokens of appreciation, and educating food establishments about the donation process and its positive impact.

Originally from Butler, Alabama, Linda earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Alabama, where she met her husband, Chris. They have three children: Caroline, Connor, and Ella. Her professional background includes experience in finance, office management, real estate, and accounting. She also spent several years as a stay-at-home mother, during which she actively volunteered with Hoover City Schools.

Following a layoff during the Covid-19 pandemic, Linda began volunteering with several organizations, including Grace Klein Community. Drawn to the organization’s mission and the meaningful connections she formed, she pursued a career shift into the non-profit sector. When she discovered a job opening at Grace Klein Community, she applied and was honored to join the team.

Linda finds deep fulfillment in her role and values the relationships she builds with colleagues, donors, and the community. Her work is driven by a passion for service and a desire to make a lasting impact.

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” — Matthew 25:40

Liz Harrison

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT LIAISON

Though she was born in California while her father was stationed there in the Air Force, Liz spent most of her childhood in Madison, AL. She began classes at Calhoun Community College in Huntsville, AL, after she graduated high school. She met the love of her life, Ryan, and moved to Birmingham to attend Jefferson State Community College. She began her career as an Administrative Assistant in 2002. Through circumstances that can only be attributed to God, she transitioned to Marketing and found her calling. In 2022, Liz received a Certificate of Ministry Leadership from Highlands College, which furthered her understanding of that calling. She loves to connect with business leaders and build relationships. Through those relationships, God led her to Grace Klein Community in the fall of 2023. Together, she and Ryan have three beautiful daughters—Lily, Gabby, and Addy—who are an active part of Grace Klein Community’s Kids Staff. Liz has the privilege of homeschooling them, instilling both life skills and a heart for service through their involvement at GKC.

Passionate about people and building connections, Liz brings a wealth of experience in marketing to the team. She thrives on creating new ways to engage the community, always with a warm smile. At GKC, she leads the monthly Networking at Noon events, collaborates with the Development Team to keep the CRM updated, and ensures donors feel valued. Whether she’s attending local events, working remotely, or balancing homeschooling, Liz is grateful for a role that blends her administrative, marketing, and people skills to further GKC’s mission of restoration.

“When I first encountered Grace Klein Community, my daughters and I volunteered with our homeschool beta club group—and we instantly felt the love of Jesus. Now, being part of the GKC team has been the biggest blessing for my family. I love connecting people to the good they already want to do—it’s truly a gift to serve others, and I feel that blessing every day.”

Jackson King

COMMUNITY & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LIAISON

Serving as an active duty U.S. Marine from 2005-2011, Jackson King found himself transitioning back to civilian life in Birmingham, AL; contributing to the community through welding, construction and sales for over a decade. In February 2024, Jackson began as a Community and Business Development Liaison with Grace Klein Community in a triangular role of championing marketplace leaders, stewarding community properties, and engaging serve teams, locally and globally. He and his wife Natalie, Director of Development with Grace Klein Community, host one of the organization’s community homes where next generation leaders come as guests to serve and learn how to activate the ways of Jesus in their everyday lives. They are the proud parents of identical twin baby boys, Aaron and Ezra, who will follow in their footsteps as bridgebuilders for Birmingham, Jesus warriors and awakeners of faith. Daniel 12:3

Claudine Land

COMMUNITY LIAISON

Born and raised in Jamaica, West Indies, Claudine Land comes from a long line of entrepreneurs, where small businesses serve as the backbone of the community. Inspired by her family’s legacy, she developed a deep understanding of what it takes to run a successful business and knew early on that she wanted to make a meaningful impact, just as her family had done. After moving to the United States and acquiring a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in Chemistry at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Claudine spent over 29 years in marketing, grant writing for major medical universities, and leading multi-state project management initiatives in the healthcare and public relations sectors. With a passion for helping businesses grow, she founded Virtual Ingenuity, LLC in 2017, providing strategic consulting, business management support, and process optimization to clients across various industries, including healthcare, real estate, corporate recruiting, and government contracting. Her meticulous attention to detail and results-driven approach helped numerous businesses streamline operations, increase productivity, and achieve sustainable growth. Although Claudine thrived in the business world, she felt a deeper calling to serve her community in a more hands-on way. This led her to Grace Klein Community, where she now uses her expertise to build relationships, foster collaboration, and create opportunities that positively impact lives.

“I love working at Grace Klein Community because it allows me to serve with purpose, build meaningful relationships, and witness the power of generosity transforming lives every day.” Outside of her professional endeavors, Claudine enjoys gardening, traveling, hiking, swimming, and taking on fitness challenges with her family. She remains passionate about community engagement, business development, and creating meaningful change—one connection at a time.

Nicole Mays

COMMUNITY LIAISON

Nicole was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama. Growing up in a community where many families, including her own, faced daily challenges and limited access to resources, she developed a deep passion for serving others and being a light in her community.

With a heart for empowerment, Nicole previously founded her own nonprofit, BASIC – Brothers and Sisters Inquiring Change, which focused on uplifting and supporting those in need. Though the organization closed during the pandemic, her commitment to helping others never wavered. She transitioned into the mental health field, aligning with her academic background. Nicole holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Talladega College and a master’s degree in Child and Adolescent Development Psychology from National University.

For five years, Nicole worked at a mental health facility, where she served individuals with care and dedication. Yet, she felt a persistent pull toward something more deeply aligned with God’s purpose for her life. In an act of faith, she left her job without a backup plan. Just one month later, God led her to Grace Klein Community—a connection she considers nothing short of divine.
At GKC, Nicole is able to walk fully in her calling by loving and serving others every single day. Her favorite program is Love Does, because it reflects the true heart of the organization—meeting people where they are and blessing them in intentional, tangible ways.

Outside of her work, Nicole finds joy in being a wife and mom. She also enjoys hiking, crocheting, and dancing—activities that bring her peace and keep her grounded.

Grace Milligan

SUSTAINABILITY LIAISON

Jesus called Grace to Birmingham in the summer of 2024 after her younger sister met the founder while both were serving with Beats and Books, a global partner of Grace Klein Community located in South Africa. Grace boldly said yes to an internship 12 hours from home—without ever having set foot in Alabama—trusting God’s leading every step of the way.

Responding to a lifelong calling to care for God’s creation, Grace completed her internship and officially joined the GKC staff in August 2024.

Born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, Grace spent much of her childhood outdoors and even remembers picking up trash on the playground at school. She went on to earn a double major in Business Administration and Environmental Sustainability from the University of Lynchburg.

As the Sustainability Liaison, Grace serves internal initiatives like waste management, food preservation, the food life cycle, Handfuls of Purpose, the GKC Garden Club, and data tracking. Externally, she serves on the development team, building relationships with community and business partners, donors, and volunteers, while educating others on environmental stewardship through speaking engagements. She dreams of building sustainable systems and resourceful solutions across both Grace Klein Community and the state of Alabama.

When she’s not at work, you’ll likely find Grace catching up with friends, playing pickleball, listening to podcasts, or out on a run.

“GKC is a place where we see Jesus’ miracles every day. We care about people and the planet. He knew exactly where He wanted me to be, and I am simply blessed, humbled, and honored to be here. Go Jesus!” – With love, Grace

Laurie O'Berry

FOOD RESCUE COORDINATOR

Laurie grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, helping out in her father’s pizza restaurants—a foundation that taught her the value of hard work and community from an early age. Over the years, she gained experience in a wide range of roles, including administrative support, hospital work, credit insurance, fast food, and job placement. She later spent 12 years as an injury claims adjuster before following a new calling that led her to Grace Klein Community over four and a half years ago.

Laurie holds an Associate Degree in Business Management from Davenport College in Michigan and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Huntingdon College in Alabama. She also attended King’s Way College through her home church, King’s Way Church in Irondale, Alabama.

In 2000, Laurie made the move from Michigan to Alabama, motivated by her faith—and a preference for warmer weather. Since becoming a believer in 1997, she has been actively learning to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. As she often says, “He’ll lead you down some interesting paths if you’re willing to follow.” That willingness led her away from a 19-year career and into the nonprofit world, where she now serves with purpose—feeding people, not landfills.

As the Food Rescue Coordinator at Grace Klein Community, Laurie plays a vital role in the daily operations of food recovery and distribution. She communicates with food donors, pickup partners, and volunteers—our “food rescue heroes”—to ensure smooth coordination of incoming and outgoing food. Using a dedicated food rescue app, she organizes daily pickups, manages resources, and handles community inquiries through phone, email, and social media. Laurie also oversees the deployment of collection barrels for donations of food, clothing, shoes, diapers, school supplies, and holiday gifts.

In addition to working with other organizations that share the mission to end hunger and reduce food waste, Laurie helps manage Grace Klein Community’s online Give and Take platform, inspired by Acts 4:32:
“All the believers were one in mind and heart. Selfishness was not a part of their community, for they shared everything they had with one another.” (TPT)

For Laurie, this way of life—rooted in giving, caring, and sharing—is not just work; it’s a calling. She is deeply grateful to walk this path in community, living out the love and generosity God has called her to share.

Randy McKinney

FOOD RESCUE REPRESENTATIVE

Randy is a retired accounting professional with a distinguished career spanning several decades. A 1971 graduate of Bessemer High School, he went on to earn his degree in Accounting from Auburn University in 1975. Throughout his career, Randy held key roles such as Controller and Accounting Manager across a variety of industries, demonstrating a consistent commitment to financial integrity and leadership.

He concluded his professional journey with 21 years of service at Samford University, where he served as Manager of Accounting and Financial Services before retiring.

Randy currently resides in McCalla, Alabama, with his wife. He is a proud father of four adult children and grandfather to six grandchildren. His hobbies include fishing, gardening, and making memories with his grandchildren.

He faithfully spends his time serving with Grace Klein Community as one of the Food Rescue Representatives.

Cooper Moore

TRANSPORTATION & FOOD RESCUE RECRUITMENT SUPPORT VISTA

Roger Sterling

FOOD RESCUE REPRESENTATIVE

Ben TruLove

OFFICE SUPPORT

Johanna Campbell

OFFICE MANAGER

Vinita Natrajan

VOLUNTEER & DATA COORDINATOR

Laura Tate

FOOD RESOURCE COORDINATOR ASSISTANT VISTA

Growing up, Laura Tate witnessed firsthand how lack and scarcity could ravage both families and communities. Yet, alongside the hardship, she saw an unshakable resilience—an unwavering determination to make the best of limited resources. It was that resilience that ignited Laura’s desire to serve. From an early age, she felt called to stand alongside disenfranchised and resource-deprived communities, not just as an advocate, but as a student—learning, growing, and partnering to build social capital and support holistic wellness. Laura’s journey of service began in healthcare, where she worked as a sales representative for diabetes and metastatic cancer medications. In that role, she connected doctors and patients with life-saving treatments. But over time, Laura recognized a deeper longing: to help people before they became patients. She became increasingly passionate about the root causes of poor health—particularly how a lack of basic needs can deeply impact physical, mental, emotional, and even financial wellbeing. This realization led her to pursue formal education in public health, not only to expand her knowledge, but to become better equipped to serve in meaningful, transformative ways. Guided by the belief that “when everyone is taking care of others, everyone is taken care of,” Laura draws inspiration from Philippians 2:4: “[to not look] to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” It’s this spirit of mutual care and selfless service that Laura recognized from her very first day volunteering at Grace Klein. She felt at home among a community that embodied the kind of servant-hearted leadership she aspired to. Now, Laura is beyond thrilled to officially join the Grace Klein team and serve the Greater Birmingham area. With her background in healthcare, her studies in public health, and her heart for community-driven impact, she is eager to love, support, and grow with the city and its people. For Laura, this work is more than a job—it is a calling, and she is grateful to share in it.

Ann McIntosh

VOLUNTEER CARE COORDINATOR

Ann serves as the Volunteer Care Coordinator at Grace Klein Community, where her days are filled with the joy of connecting with and supporting people in the community. She is involved in communicating with and recognizing the organization’s valuable volunteers, ensuring they feel appreciated for their contributions. For those in celebration or crisis, Ann provides personal care through prayer, home visits, and the delivery of frozen meals, floral arrangements, scripture cards, and other thoughtful items to offer encouragement and meet tangible needs.
Originally from Dalton, Georgia, Ann moved to Birmingham to attend Samford University and quickly fell in love with the city. She earned a degree in Culinary and Wellness Nutrition Management with a minor in General Business. Before joining Grace Klein Community, Ann furthered her ministry training at King’s Way College in Irondale, AL, inspired by Ephesians 4, which speaks of being equipped for “the work of ministry.” During this time, Ann also worked for a locally owned business in the food industry, where she gained valuable experience.
Ann’s journey to Grace Klein Community came through a connection with Natalie King at church—something she believes was completely orchestrated by God! As she often says, “God has given me a supernatural love for the city of Birmingham,” and one of her greatest joys in her role is being positioned to meet the needs of those around her. Her heart for service and ministry is at the core of her work, and she considers it a privilege to represent Jesus to the people of Birmingham!

Ann Hollis Jobe

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL SERVE TEAM COORDINATOR

Ann Hollis is Grace Klein Community’s National and International Serve Team Coordinator. Ann Hollis is a passionate disciple of Jesus, and her desire is to honor Him with the entirety of her life. She is originally from Marietta, Georgia and is excited to build community in Birmingham. Ann Hollis has received her undergraduate degree in International Affairs and Religion from the University of Georgia and her masters in Spiritual Formation and Leadership from North Greenville University. She has experience in Christian disciple-making, leading teams overseas, student ministry, cross-cultural leadership, leadership development, coaching, and creative event planning. She is also the wife of Thomas Jobe, who is working on his Masters of Divinity from Beeson Divinity School. “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery…Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” (Galatians 5:1, 13-14, ESV)

Misty Luthcke

SERVE TEAM & HOSPITALITY COORDINATOR

Alyna Click

OFFICE MANAGER

Alyna grew up in Alabaster, AL, as an only child. After graduating from Thompson High School, Alyna hit a rough patch when she was pulled into the world of addiction. But GOD! Her aunt and uncle “just so happened” to come serve with Grace Klein Community, where we were able to connect Alyna to one of our staff and met Jesus. Then we were able to refer her to a recovery program where she walked through the steps of restoration and earned an associate’s degree in theology from Covenant Bible College made possible by a scholarship from Radical Restoration Ministries. After completion of the program, she returned to Birmingham, AL, and begin volunteering with GKC. As the demands of the pandemic grew, GKC brought Alyna on staff to help run our day to day operations.

Her deep love for people is evident everyday as she serves at the Grace Klein Community office. Her ever-present smile is a light on even the most hectic days. She claims both King’s Way Church in Irondale and Liberty Church Birmingham in Hoover as hers and attends both as her schedule allows. In her free time, Alyna loves spending time outdoors (especially fishing!) and hanging out with friends and family.

“I never thought two years ago that His plan for me would be so extravagant! God has really blessed me at Grace Klein and I am so thankful to be part of the Grace Klein family. All things are possible with God – Matthew 19:26”

She stands on the firm foundation of faith each day, especially a scripture God gave her a couple of years ago, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13

Kendall Douglass

VOLUNTEER & SERVE TEAM ASSISTANT

Kendall Douglass is from the Birmingham area and returned to Grace Klein Community in Summer 2025 after interning with the organization in 2024. She fell in love with their mission and knew she wanted to continue being part of the work to serve others. Kendall recently graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and a minor in Nonprofit and Philanthropy. With a heart for service and a passion for community, she brings experience in event planning, content writing, and nonprofit communications. She’s excited to grow in this role, learn from those around her, connect with the community, and contribute to meeting practical needs with compassion and purpose.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5–6

Mackenzie Severt

PROGRAM COORDINATOR ASSISTANT

Originally from Byram, Mississippi, Mackenzie graduated from Union University in 2022 with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. She moved to the Birmingham area shortly after marrying her husband, Andrew, who serves as the Minister of Students at the Church at Old Town in Helena. Together, they love partnering in ministry and serving others. Before joining GKC, Mackenzie interned in children’s ministry at her church during college and also served with a local nonprofit in Jackson, Tennessee, working closely with families and children affected by poverty. Those experiences deepened her passion for helping families access needed resources and ultimately led her to pursue a career where she could do this daily—with the hope of pointing people to Jesus. As one of the Program Coordinators at Grace Klein Community, Mackenzie oversees and makes key decisions for several of GKC’s non-food-related programs, including Christmas, School Supplies, Diapers and Wipes, the Give and Take Room, and more. Her day-to-day work focuses on ensuring these programs operate smoothly and have the support they need to effectively serve the community. Mackenzie’s favorite part about working at GKC is witnessing miracles—big and small—on a regular basis. Whether through answered prayers or unexpected provisions, she sees God’s intentional care at work every day. These moments, so often visible to both staff and the families they serve, continually open the door for her to share the love and truth of Jesus.

Maggie Morrison

SERVE TEAM & VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR ASSISTANT

Bailey Walker

SERVE TEAM & VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR ASSISTANT

Originally from Hueytown, Alabama, and now residing in Homewood, Bailey has lived in the Birmingham area her entire life. She is a graduate of Samford University, where she studied Psychology and Art, and went on to serve in Residence Life, working closely with college students in mentoring and leadership roles. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Biblical Counseling from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Before joining Grace Klein Community, Bailey felt called to serve in the counseling field and reached out to numerous counseling centers throughout Birmingham. Yet, every door remained closed—until God opened one at GKC. In what felt like a season of closed opportunities, Grace Klein Community became the clearest and most unexpected “yes.”

In her role as Volunteer & Serve Team Coordinator Assistant, Bailey helps connect individuals and teams to serving opportunities, guiding them to understand both the heart and purpose behind each task. She spends much of her time in the Community Outreach Hall, where she helps process donations, care for families, and manage the Give and Take Room. Working at GKC has been life-changing for her. Through this ministry, Bailey has learned deep lessons in gratitude, selflessness, and community. Her heart for service continues to grow as she witnesses God’s hand at work through every part of Grace Klein Community.

Lizzie Willcox

SERVE TEAM & VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR ASSISTANT

Lizzie is a recent graduate of Samford University where she studied history and was involved in campus organizations. She is a native of Greenville, SC but is excited to call Birmingham home and give back to the community. She loves her family, friends, and creating meaningful connections with those around her.