Support Discovery Center's Mission.
Supporting the Discovery Center goes beyond membership, there are numerous ways to contribute to our mission of inspiring curiosity and learning. Whether you become a member, attend our exciting fundraisers, or engage in corporate sponsorships, your involvement helps us bring educational experiences to life. You can also adopt an animal, volunteer your time, or explore other giving opportunities. Each act of support, big or small, plays a crucial role in nurturing young minds and fostering a love for discovery in our community. Together, we can continue to create unforgettable moments of wonder and exploration for all. To learn more, please contact Sarah Hicks.
Discovery Center Memberships
Children love the open-ended self-directed learning experiences found in every corner of the Discovery Center. And with 30,000 sq. ft. of museum space and new exhibits each year, it’s a different experience at every visit!
Discovery Center offers a 15% discount on memberships for the active/retired military as well as currently employed K-12th-grade classroom teachers.*
Members get free admission for a year and discounts on parties, programs, and more. Membership fees also provide ongoing support for Discovery Center which benefits all families in our community!
Corporate Sponsorships
Corporate sponsorship plays an important role in the Discovery Center’s mission to create a museum where play and learning come together. From exhibits to outreach programs, generous donations help to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of thousands of children and families in Middle Tennessee.
Examples of available benefits (depending on the level of giving) include:
- Recognition on our website.
- Recognition a monthly e-newsletter sent to 15,000+ families.
- Recognition in press releases sent out to local and regional media.
- Recognition in our Annual Report.
- Free Museum passes, membership discounts, and volunteer opportunities for the employees of your corporation.
- Employee Appreciation Day for your employees
We offer sponsorship packages at a range of levels. Packages are customized to benefit your company. If your company is interested in sponsorship opportunities, please contact Beth Cope, Vice President of Marketing & Development.
Fundraisers
The Discovery Center hosts a series of annual fundraising events in Murfreesboro, TN that provide essential support for our educational programs while offering unique, memorable experiences for our community.
A Night at the Museum featuring Wine, Whiskey & Ale is an exclusive adults-only evening set inside Discovery Center — a rare opportunity to experience the museum after hours while enjoying fine wines, whiskey, and ale in support of our mission and programs.
The Secret Garden Party is an exclusive annual fundraiser that rotates locations each year, featuring an elevated sit-down dinner prepared by a local Murfreesboro chef, along with live and silent auctions, all coming together for an unforgettable evening of celebration and giving.
The Secret Garden Tour kicks off National Garden Week with a self-guided tour of beautiful private homes and gardens throughout Murfreesboro and Rutherford County. Gracious homeowners and gardeners open their doors to the public in support of Discovery Center, with this beloved community event hosted in partnership with Reggie Reeves and the Master Gardeners of Rutherford County.
Each of these fundraising events is a vital way to support Discovery Center's mission — ensuring we can continue to inspire, educate, and engage our community for years to come.
Discovery Guild
Over the years, Discovery Center has strived to be a hub for families — not only inspiring a future generation of leaders in STEAM careers, but also welcoming and celebrating all children and possibilities.
At a time when so many in our country have experienced injustice and disparity, the Discovery Center staff and other community leaders have united to bridge the gap and be a resource for families.
From the discussions among our alliance was born the Discovery Guild, and we invite you to join us in this effort today!
Young Leaders Council
With a purpose of inspiring curious minds to become the future, the DC Young Leaders Council exposes young minds to a variety of career opportunities found in the museum world and beyond. In this selective leadership development program, members will be provided with opportunities for creative thinking, mentorship, relationship development, and skill building. Council Members will serve as leaders both in their communities and at the Discovery Center representing a diverse, inspiring, and dedicated group of youths with a passion for bettering the community in which they live and learn.
Counselor in Training
Engage children in ways that will shape their lives forever and become a Counselor in Training (CIT). Explore the museum behind the scenes and learn what makes the Discovery Center so extraordinary! The benefits of becoming a CIT:
- Flexible hours
- Gain work experience in child care, education, leadership and much more
- Work with professionals and learn the ins-and-outs of managing camps
- A fun and exciting work environment
The Special Needs Council
The Special Needs Council is a group of parents, professionals, and staff working to make the Discovery Center more accessible and welcoming to guests with diverse learning styles, social comforts, and physical capabilities.
If you are passionate about inclusion and accessibility and would like to make a difference, please reach out to Sarah Hicks to explore how you can get involved with the Special Needs Council.
Cultural Community Day Council
The Discovery Center celebrates diversity and cultural heritage by dedicating six special days each year to highlight and honor specific cultures. These events are not only educational but also a vibrant showcase of the traditions, arts, and histories of various communities. On these days, the center opens its doors to all visitors free of charge, encouraging everyone to participate in immersive experiences that range from live performances and interactive workshops to cultural exhibits and traditional cuisine.
Each event, whether it’s MLK Day, Lunar New Year, Arts in April, Hispanic Heritage Day, India Day, or the Holiday Open House, offers a unique opportunity for guests to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural tapestry that makes up our community.
