Small rural museums constitute three in five of all American museums, yet they typically have the poorest access to professional resources and training opportunities. Ironically, these museums care for a disproportionate share of our nation’s cultural heritage. While more than 75% of America’s museums operate with annual budgets under $100,000, a strong majority of rural museums operate with less than $50,000 annually.

PROGRAM PURPOSE
The Hands-on Experiential Learning Project (HELP) is a regional professional training initiative that enables small and rural museums to build institutional capacity and establish lasting improvements.

The current year-long HELP program concentrates on improvements related to nonprofit governance.  Participant museums will focus on six essential components of good governance:

• Board Roles/Responsibilities
• Board Renewal/Development
• Organization/Board Meetings
• Legal Issues
• Public Accountancy/Fiduciary Responsibilities
• Personnel/Working Relationships

Each participant museum will receive support through workshops, online training, an in-state consultant, and travel subsidies for workshops and conferences.

To learn about HELP opportunities in your area, please click on the links at left.