The Hermitage Museum & Gardens is a private non-profit museum operating without on-going city, state, or federal funding. Because the Museum & Gardens has been open to the public continuously since 1941, most are under the impression that the gardens and structures are maintained by public funds and that our staff are city employees. The reality is that the Hermitage exists thanks to an endowment created by the Sloane family at the time the museum was created. These funds continue to keep the doors open, but for the Hermitage to expand offerings to the community, conserve the collection, and preserve the structures and gardens, your financial support is necessary. As you review the ways to join us in support of the museum, please consider which option may work best for you.
Ways to Give :
Gifts to the Annual Fund are 100% tax-deductible donations that are used solely for the support of day-to-day operations of the Museum which ensures that the lights are on, the doors are open and the staff is ready to serve visitors. To the Museum, the Annual Fund is similar to your own checking account, and used for operating expenses such as heating and lighting. When each year begins, the Annual Fund is empty and must be replenished. Without this support, the Museum could not continue to function as a community resource. This year our goal is to raise $100,000 to meet these essential service requirements and programming needs.
Gifts to the Capital Fund are 100% tax-deductible donations that are used only for the major expenses of large scale projects that last long term. To the Museum, the Capital Fund is similar to your own savings account, and used for major expenses such as a new roof. Unlike the Annual Fund, gifts to the Capital Fund may be carried over from year to year.
Gifts to the Endowment Fund are also 100% tax-deductible donations, but they are invested to become part of an ongoing fund that provides security for the Museum’s future. To the Museum, the Endowment Fund is similar to your own long term investments, which grow over time and offer long-term security for the institution.
