Culture4Kids
Since its inception in 1989, the Smithsonian Young Benefactors has built a rich tradition of volunteerism and giving back to the Smithsonian and the Washington community. Over the years, YB members have volunteered tens of thousands of hours at Smithsonian museums, offices and festivals such as the Folklife Festival and the Smithsonian Kite Festival, attended by millions of area children and families. In addition, for more than six years, YBs have supported the Smithsonian Office of Accessibility Services, mailing tapes of Smithsonian magazine every month to people who are visually impaired. But that is not all! The YBs also go out into the community by sending teams of 10 to 12 volunteers several times a year to help improve local District schools and by donating hundreds of toys through our Toy Drive at the annual Jolly Holiday party.
Building on this tradition, in 2006 the organization created the YB Culture4Kids Fund, providing local disadvantaged children with access to the diverse educational and culturally enriching experiences offered by the Smithsonian. Funds are raised through donations accepted at all YB events and via the web, through YB membership at the Sponsor and Director’s Circle levels, and through proceeds from YB fundraising events.
The YB Culture4Kids Fund provides:
- Annual scholarships for underprivileged DC-school children to attend the Smithsonian Summer Camp
- Scholarships to allow classrooms to attend an entire year of the Smithsonian’s Discovery Theater
- Funds for one Smithsonian Discovery Theater production every year
- Funds for Meet the Museum programs at various Smithsonian museums
- Operational funds to support the Smithsonian Scholars in the Schools Program, which sends Smithsonian scholars to school communities across the country
In 2008, the YBs have plans to adopt a local school! Click here to nominate a deserving school.
Give a donation to the YB Culture4Kids Fund!
