Annual Fund
A Message from Midge Nelson, Chair the 2011 Annual Fund
As a new member of the Seacoast Science Center's Board of Directors, I have been learning about all of the ways the Center creates connections to nature and a love of science. The work that the Seacoast Science Center does is unique in the seacoast, and so important for our youth, that I volunteered to Chair the 2011 Annual Fund to ensure that they have the money they need to continue their mission. Please let me share with you some of the things the Center provides to our community all year long.
- Educational programs and camps for children 18 months to 8th grade, serving 14,500 youths annually
- Adult learning opportunities from our Heritage Dinners covering topics such as the Arctic, Tsunamis and maritime history, and volunteering
- Hourly visitor programs such as nature walks, creature features and story time
- Local school programs that range from in-the-field, at-school, to after-school
- Distance learning programs teach marine science to students in 13 states, Canada and Australia
- Fun and educational community events on the seacoast including Music-by-the-Sea summer concerts, Whale of A 5k Trail Race & Kid's Fun Run, Art in Nature week and dawn to dusk BioBlitz!
I have also been learning about why this kind of education is important to every one of us. According to the national experts, 80% of the jobs that will be created in the next decade will require math and science skills, yet the next generation of Americans will not be ready. Studies show declining interest in science: 84% of middle school students would rather clean their room, eat their vegetables, go to the dentist or take out the garbage than learn math or science.
That's where the Center's fun and innovative approach to science education comes in and why I'm asking for your help! Their hands-on, active programs engage students' natural curiosity and teach them to enjoy science and the importance of respecting the environment. Children also learn important life skills that translate directly into skills they will need in the work force. They learn to observe, analyze, communicate and ask questions.
The Center relies on our community to bring this experience to seacoast youth and families: 30% of the Center's operating funds come from people like you. No matter what you give, it matters. Whether you can give at an Annual Giving Society level (see reverse for benefits) or give whatever you can afford, remember: every gift counts.
Please put the Seacoast Science Center in your plans for giving this year! Donations can be made securely by clicking on the contribute button below.
Thank you. Together we can help our young people enjoy the fascinating world of science and learn about the wonderful marine world that surrounds all of us who live on the seacoast.
*Click on Membership in the bar above to learn more about Annual Giving Society benefits.
Gifts of Stock
The Center welcomes gifts of securities. Transferring stock is easy; please call 603-436-8043, ext 26 for transfer instructions.
Restricted Gifts
You can can also choose to restrict your gift to one of the following funds: Camp Fund, Tot Fund, School Program Fund, Exhibit Fund or Professional Development Fund.
- Annual Fund/General Support: Contributions are used where needed most.
- Camp Fund: Provides financial support for children attending our Seaside Safari (K-grade 8) day camp programs.
- Tot Fund: Provides financial support for children attending our Pre-Kindergarten (18 mos.-5 yrs.) programs.
- School Program Fund: Provides financial support for schools that would otherwise be unable to afford a Center program.
- Exhibit Fund: Supports the maintenance and care of exhibits and feeding of animals.
- Professional Development Fund: Provides financial support for staff training.
Planned Giving
There are many ways that you can create a secure future for the Seacoast Science Center.
- Outright Gift
- Bequest
- Charitable Gift Annuity
- Charitable Remainder Trust
- Deferred Income
Please contact your financial advisor and the Seacoast Science Center to create a giving plan that meets your charitable giving goals
Wish List Items
We gladly accept donations of new and gently-used items to help defray our costs.
Please click here 
for a list of items that we are currently in need of. Thank you.