Museum Launches Fund Raising Programme
Membership Drive Underway
Waiting in the wings for opening curtains in the first quarter of 2009, the Museum is busy behind the scenes developing opportunities for donors, not only with respect to their support of efforts to preserve history for future generations, but also with regard to their becoming active participants in its historic re-emergence.
The programme of engaging benefactors goes hand-in-hand with a membership drive inviting supporters back home, while embracing new interests.
“We have commenced a programme of inviting persons and companies to become part of this historic event -- the re-launch of a new and improved institution following our massive and intensive two-and-a-half year post-Ivan restoration programme,” said Board Chair Harris McCoy.
In addition to other opportunities, institutional and high-net worth benefactors may have opportunities to “own” major exhibits, Mr. McCoy explained. Among other benefits, this ownership will be expressed by means of installation of tastefully appointed name plates at sponsored exhibits.
But even more importantly, says the Chair, “We need our supporters, including new interests, to be a part of this historic re-launch.” The Museum especially needs a strong cadre of volunteers, he said. “And this opportunity is open to all sectors and all ages of persons across our communities.”
So far, civil servants have been invited to join via mass emailing; the Chamber of Commerce has agreed to come aboard, plans for which include the hosting of a Business After Hours at the Museum following November’s soft opening; and there is a steady programme of personal contacts with institutions and individuals.
In addition to the satisfaction derived from supporting an institution with such important goals, members have unlimited free admission. They are also invited to members-only previews and receptions and have access to the Museum’s library.
“Join the Museum today and you will have the opportunity to participate in the institution’s development into a bustling, vital cultural centre for local residents and a ‘must see’ destination spot for visitors,” says Mr. Simon Palmer, chairman of the fundraising committee. “Your support will help to advance existing programmes and break ground in new initiatives.”
In addition to accessing these benefits, corporate donors, upon contributing an annual fee of CI$20,000, are designated members of the “Heritage Guardian Society”. Those who donate $10,000 plus will join the “Silver Thatch Society”, while “Benefactors” may contribute $5,000 or more. Those who contribute $1,000, $500 or $100, will be designated “Sponsors”, “Donors” and “Contributors”.
Annual membership fees for the general population are: Seniors/Student, $10; individuals, $25; and families, $50. Benefits for these categories are outlined in the enclosed “Membership Benefits” insert, which has a detachable portion for application purposes.
For questions or comments, please contact membership@museum.ky. For contributions, please email fundraising@museum.ky. You may also call the Museum at 949-8368.
