Support Our Mission
Your general donation helps to support:
- New temporary exhibits
- New/updated interactives in exhibits
- Educational programming
- Upkeep of our collection of 250,000+ artifacts
- And much more!
#SUPPORTYOURMUMMY
2025-2026 Annual Campaign Powered by You!
Behind every child’s spontaneous “Wow!”—every moment of curiosity sparked, every family discovery shared—are donors like you. Your generosity powers experiences that inspire, educate, and connect more than 160,000 members of our community each year.
Your gift does more than support exhibits and programs—it amplifies impact by:
Igniting Curiosity & Creativity
You help children see themselves as explorers and innovators through hands-on learning. Thanks to your support, our new Putnam for Preschool outreach program is opening doors to science for our youngest learners—cultivating curiosity that lasts a lifetime.
Opening Worlds of Discovery
Families and friends dive into the stories behind our one-of-a-kind collection. From the wonders showcased in our Vault exploration area to artifacts that tell the story of our region and beyond, your gift ensures these treasures continue to inspire awe and understanding.
Strengthening Our Community
You help the Putnam remain a welcoming place where everyone—regardless of background or circumstance—can connect through shared experiences and a deeper appreciation of our history and world.
When you power the Putnam, you power possibility. You make it possible for every child, family, and community member to learn, dream, and grow together. As the year comes to a close, please consider making a generous gift today to help amplify our impact in the year ahead.
Community Access Fund
A donation to our Access Fund helps to support:
- A museum trip for a low-income household
- Educational camps/workshops for children who otherwise couldn’t afford them
- Field trips for students with financial need
- Other opportunities to help our community access the Putnam!
Learn more about our Community Access Fund
Birdies for Charity
Every year, the John Deere Classic sponsors Birdies for Charity, a giving program that allows donors to either make a pledge of at least a penny per birdie scored at the golf tournament or a one-time flat donation.
The Classic will pass along 100% of your contribution to the Putnam and will add a bonus check of between 5% and 10%, making the impact of your gift even greater.
You can request a pledge form from the Putnam beginning in April of each year. Forms must typically be submitted by mid to late June and must include our correct birdie number to designate funds to the Putnam.
OUR BIRDIES NUMBER #595
For more information, please contact Betsy Matt Turner, Vice President of Strategic Advancement, at 563-336-7303 or bturner@putnam.org.









