The Maritime Museum of BC (MMBC), located in downtown Victoria, is nearing its 70th anniversary and has launched its annual fundraising campaign in order to raise the funds needed to stay in operation.
This year, the MMBC will be putting on their fifth annual “Float the Boat” campaign, with a goal of $25,000.
This campaign will be going on for one month, from Monday, February 17th to Tuesday, March 18th.
During that time, museum supporters, staff, volunteers and board members will share exactly what goes into operating the MMBC every day, and how members of the public can be a stepping stone towards their future in Victoria’s harbour.
Each milestone on the way to $25,000 will be shared as a live video showing more water being added to the tank until it is full.
MMBC says that donating to Float the Boat supports the everyday operations that impact every project, program and exhibit at the MMBC.
“It’s important that the public knows just how impactful even a small donation is to a non-profit museum like the MMBC,” said Wendy Moreton, Board Chair of the MMBC.
“We’re charting a future in the harbour with The Future of History project, but we can’t take the next steps without you on board.”
Recently, the MMBC announced they are working with the Songhees and the Xʷsepsəm (Esquimalt) Nations to restore the former Robert Bateman Gallery in the Steamship Building by Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
This project is called ‘The Future of History’ and involves the Steamship Building’s tenancy being negotiated with the provincial government, which is ongoing.
The Steamship Building will eventually be their new space, but for now, the MMBC remains at 744 Douglas Street.
“We’re working on the initiatives and projects now that will put the wind in our sails for a future home in the harbour,” said Donna Livingstone, Associate Director of the MMBC.
From wrapping up years-long archive digitization projects that open up access to 554 linear feet of archives and 35,000 objects, to developing completely unique maritime programming for everyone who wants a little more salt in their life, what makes a difference is always you, our MMBC supporters.”
Donations to the Float the Boat campaign can be made online here.
