How to Support the Stearns History Museum
There are many ways to help our mission thrive.
The Stearns History Museum connects people through the power of history and culture. We strive to provide a unique and welcoming experience that is both fun and meaningful for all visitors. At the same time, our staff and volunteers work steadily to preserve history in a way that will make it accessible and relatable to visitors well into the future. You can make a positive impact in more ways than one, and they’re all extremely appreciated. Come be part of our vision today.
Financial Donations—Your Biggest Impact
Unrestricted monetary donations are our biggest need. They help to cover operating costs, secure staff positions, and keep new programs coming your way.
Even a small amount can make a big impact at the Museum. For instance, just $36 can support the operating costs of 10 square feet of our 20,128 square foot building all year.
Financial Giving Options:
General Donation: Any amount, online or in person.
Recurring Donation: Feel free to break your annual gift into monthly payments. Contact us directly for assistance.
Designated Donation: Donate an amount toward a specific area of interest, such as:
-Sponsoring a school field trip to the Museum
-Events & Programs
-Outdoor landscaping
-Research resources
-Updating technology in our spaces
Ready to donate? Feel free to make your gift online at Stearns-Museum.org/Donate, or contact our Development Director at 320-253-8424 to set up a designated donation. Many thanks!
Endowment Opportunities
Planned Giving
Consider leaving a lasting legacy in the name of history by making a planned gift to the Stearns History Museum. Today’s tax laws make it possible to eliminate capital gains, increase your income stream and provide a tax deduction. More than that, you’ll be providing for our organization in a way that allows us to serve others for years to come.
Endowed Position Funding
A staff position, department, or program area may be endowed by giving a name to a fund. We would be happy to discuss opportunities and tailor them to your wishes.
Memorial and Honor Gifts
The Stearns History Museum graciously accepts donations in memory or honor of family and friends. Recognize a special event, birthday, or anniversary for the history lover in your life or remember those who were lovers of history after their passing. Contact us directly to arrange the details or include the name of the person or family being honored or remembered with your donation.
Commemorative Recognition
Endowment funding supports our continuing work, and we will recognize our donors permanently in the building. Regardless of the amount, we are so grateful!
Recognization levels are as follows:
• Gold Patrons $50,000+
• Silver Patrons $25,000+
• Bronze Patrons $10,000+
Contribution Wish List
Another meaningful way to support the Stearns History Museum is to give in the form of an item or service that’s on our current needs list.
In the past, this has included kitchen appliances, letters from World War II, landscaping services, and antique toys for an exhibit.
In the past, this has included kitchen appliances, letters from World War II, landscaping services, and antique toys for an exhibit.
This list is ever-changing, and contributions are always appreciated!
- New coffee pots (25/30 cup, 50/60 cup, 100 cup)
- AV equipment for public meeting spaces (screens, projectors, computers,
microphones) - Scavenger hunt prizes and children’s programming supplies or gift cards to purchase them (Target, Walmart, Amazon, Costco, Coburns/Cashwise)
- Artifacts and photos related to transportation of all varieties in Stearns County for an upcoming exhibit
- Financial support for Ancestry.com subscription in the archives ($1200 annually)
- Landscaping supplies for gardens and berms
- Oversized planters, dirt, and plants for the plaza
- Disposable plates, cups, napkins for events
- A subscription to Lightworks editing for video content ($265)
- 2 ethernet cable extensions for the Research Center
- Letter size 2-ply tab file folders
- Reams or boxes of printer paper
- Microfilm printer/scanner and accompanying computer
- Breakfast club sponsors ($500/month)
- Crossings magazine sponsor
Interested?
We sure hope so! Thanks in advance for helping the Stearns History Museum make a positive impact, right here in our region. People like you help us grow what we can offer while connecting more individuals and families to the power of history and culture. If you’d like to learn more or plan a visit, please feel free to contact us—we’ll be happy to talk with you further. Contact us today by calling 320-253-8424, emailing us at info@stearns-museum.org, or by visiting us in person. We look forward to connecting with you.