Thanks to the successful completion of a Community Development Block Grant through the city of Enid, Leonardo’s is able to provide free family memberships for up to 250 local families who qualify.
A membership at Leonardo’s includes unlimited visits to the museum and Adventure Quest for five family members for a full year, plus numerous other benefits.
“Although Leonardo’s has always offered membership scholarships, we have been limited in past years by not always having enough sponsors to meet the need,” said Julie Baird, executive director. “A grant of this magnitude will greatly enable us to make the museum accessible to those children and families in our community who need it most.”
CDBG grants are federal funding through Housing & Urban Development that are administered and overseen by local government agencies. Guidelines for qualification are determined by HUD and include proof of household income and the number of family members living in the household. The Leonardo’s grant was in the public services category, meaning the grant funds only can be used for Enid residents in the low- and moderate-income levels.
“Anyone who can demonstrate need will be eligible for the membership scholarships, even if they have been granted one in the past,” Baird said. Proof of need also could include Sooner Care, WIC, free or reduced lunches or SSI.
The cost of a family membership at Leonardo’s normally is $119.19, which includes $110 for the membership and $9.19 sales tax.
“Scholarship applicants are asked to pay only the tax portion ($9.19), because we must pay that to the state,” Baird said, “but if they cannot afford even that amount, an adult family member can volunteer in the museum for two hours instead.”
Scholarship families receive all the same benefits as other members at Leonardo’s. In addition to museum visits, members are eligible for discounts on all programs and events, discounts in the museum gift shop, birthday party discounts, a quarterly newsletter by mail, and early admission to select events such as the annual Hometown 4th of July celebration and Noon Years Eve.
After the free first year, scholarship families are eligible for annual memberships renewals at half price, as long as need still can be demonstrated.
“Scientific research has proven that children who have regular access to museums and cultural events do better in school, have higher self-esteem, have more job opportunities, and ultimately, have more success in life. Isn’t that what we all want for our children?” Baird said.
For information about a family membership scholarship or any Leonardo’s program or event, go to the website at www.leonardos.org or call 233-2787.