The Sciencenter Combines Annual Giving with Annual Membership Renewal Process

An Interview with Membership Manager Christine Bissen

(SciencenterNews, Spring 2005)

Recently, we folded our Annual Fund request into our membership renewal process. When you receive your Membership Renewal Reminder by mail you will be asked to consider making your Annual Fund gift at this time as well.

Here are answers to several frequently asked questions about how it will work:

Q: I'm Confused! Should I renew my membership or to make a gift to the annual fund? BOTH! Membership and general admission dollars cover only 50% of the cost of running the museum, and the additional gifts of our members make up the difference. When you renew, we hope you will consider making a gift to the annual fund at the same time.

Q: Why renew my membership and make a gift at the same time? Many members tell us they would rather make a single contribution to the Sciencenter each year that combines membership with annual giving. This reduces the number of requests you receive and confusion over what's membership and what's an annual fund gift.

Q: When will this happen? When you renew your membership: this way, you are on your own personal giving timetable. If you would prefer to renew at a different time, please contact me at 272-0600 x19.

Q: Won't the Sciencenter lose money by only asking for one contribution? Maybe… We are taking a risk with this new process. But we firmly believe that you will appreciate making a single contribution, as we seek to reduce the confusion of soliciting you twice for membership and annual giving.

Q: If I make a gift to the Sciencenter, is my membership renewed? From now on, you will receive a complementary membership for any gift over $75.