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The National Canal Museum is a premier cultural institution. It has received national and international recognition for the significance of its collections, the excellence of its site, and the quality of its educational programs. The generosity of individuals, businesses and foundations has made this achievement possible. Gifts of all sizes are crucial to the institution’s future.

How to give to Hugh Moore Historical Park and Museums

The National Canal Museum and Hugh Moore Park have a variety of giving opportunities and flexible programs for donors. A private, nonprofit institution incorporated under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and qualified by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization, Hugh Moore Historical Park and Museums is supported by individuals, businesses, foundations and government agencies.

Planned Gifts Planned gifts are donations that are committed during a donor’s lifetime for enjoyment by the museum either before or after a donor’s death. Planned giving allows a donor to take advantage of major tax deductions at the time that the gift is made while retaining certain rights to the gift. This frequently means that an individual can make a planned gift that is far more generous than the donor’s present situation would permit. Some planned giving opportunities are listed below. Donors considering a planned gift to Hugh Moore Historical Park and Museums should discuss planned giving with their financial and legal advisers and the museum to determine the most favorable structure.

Bequests Many donors have included Hugh Moore Historical Park and Museums in their wills or trusts to receive cash, securities, real estate or other property. One benefit of such a gift is that it can reduce estate taxes. To make a bequest, contact your attorney or our Director of Development to discuss your options. The following language is suggested for your will: “I bequeath Hugh Moore Historical Park and Museums, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)(3) Pennsylvania corporation, the sum of $_________ or __________ percent of my residual estate, for its general purposes.”

Charitable Remainder Trust Under this agreement, a donor places in trust an amount of money, securities, or other property and enjoys an income interest from that gift during his or her lifetime, or the life of another person designated by the donor. When the trust expires the museum receives a gift of the remaining assets.

Life Insurance A donor may have a life insurance policy that he or she no longer needs for its original purpose. This can make a unique and attractive gift – particularly when it entails a large cash value and relatively small premiums. A donor may name Hugh Moore Historical Park and Museums as the owner and beneficiary of a fully-paid policy, or may donate a new or current policy.

Donor Recognition The museum offers a large range of donor recognition opportunities, including permanent naming of facilities, endowment funds to support programs, specific annual programs, and sponsored exhibitions. Donors are encouraged to discuss recognition opportunities with the museum when planning a gift.

Donors who support the museum through life income agreements and/or by provisions in their will are eligible for membership in the Josiah White Society. For information contact the development office at 610-559-6622 or click here to download a printable form for giving.

Hugh Moore Historical Park and Museums, Inc. is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit organization registered with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Charitable Organizations. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Dept. of State by calling toll free within Pennsylvania (800) 732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.