[Now also includes the Susanna Dickinson Museum] Although the City of Austin, Parks and Recreation Department, owns and operates these wonderful historical museums on Brush Square, our independent nonprofit, The Friends, plays a vital role in engaging volunteers and sponsoring joint activities with the Museum staff, for example, the Annual O. Henry Pun-Off World Championships. I first became involved in 1993. In that time, the Friends have raised funds with book sales, auctions, producing plays, and publishing videos and books. Over the years, we have given grants back to the Museum making it possible to host exhibit receptions for the public, readings and talks by experts, special collection purchases, high school essay contest awards, materials for after-school writing clubs, and recently an Apple iPad for an exhibit display. The Board played a critical role in the restoration construction of the Susanna Dickinson Museum as grant writer and fiduciary agent and partner with the City of Austin bond program. We play a vital role at times in educating City Council members about the Museums and why they should be preserved and enhanced as cultural treasures. I believe, even though we are a small nonprofit, we can say we have made a big difference for the Museums.
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- EIN 43-1988102
- (512) 472-1903
- 409 E 5TH St Austin TX 78701 USA
- http://www.friendsofohenryanddickinsonmuseums.org/
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Nonprofit Overview
Causes: Arts & Culture, Single Organization Support
Mission: The organizations primary exempt purpose is the preservation of the o. Henry museum and the susanna dickinson house and to educate the public about o. Henry's and susanna dickinson's legacy to literature and texas history.
Target demographics: preserve and promote the Museums for O. Henry and Susanna Dickinson
Direct beneficiaries per year: museum staff host many events & receptions
Geographic areas served: Austin
Programs: the Annual O. Henry Pun-Off World Championships, Austin Museum Day, Texas Independence Day, Susanna's Birthday November 2nd, O. Henry's Birthday September 11th, public exhibit receptions, youth and adult writing programs, readings and expert presentations, and produce books, videos, and unique materials.