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A Heartfelt Donation: How One Family’s Contribution is Making a World of Difference

Date

September 12, 2023

We at the Grand Rapids Public Museum are deeply committed to enriching the lives of everyone in our community, especially those who may not have easy access to educational and cultural experiences. This is why our Foster Care appeal is so close to our hearts. We are absolutely thrilled to announce a special donation of $5,000 from Crystal Flash, made at the recommendation of the Beverage Family. This generous gift translates into 500 individual tickets, allowing foster children the joy of discovery that our museum offers.

This initiative aims to offer an enriching experience for children in the foster care system, a demographic that often lacks access to cultural and educational resources. Your donations directly convert into museum tickets, enabling these young minds to explore and learn. This year has been particularly special, with over 800 foster care tickets distributed—our highest year on record!

Crystal Flash is not just a business but an organization with a heart for community involvement. Doug Beverage, an integral part of their Leadership Team, is a perfect example of this spirit. Doug, along with his wife Karen and their son Doug III, have always been passionate about giving back to the community they love. This donation holds a special meaning; it is made in honor of Alice, Doug and Karen Beverage’s late 5-year-old daughter. Alice, a light to everyone who knew her, inspired this generous act. Although she is no longer with us, her spirit and joy for life continue to be a source of inspiration.

The 500 tickets generated from this donation will provide invaluable opportunities for children in foster care. Partner organizations that will benefit from this year’s drive include Kent County, DA Blodgett, Catholic Charities of WM, Ronald McDonald House, Safe Haven, Ottawa Dept of Health and Human Services, and Samaritas.

Your generosity can create a ripple effect of goodwill and education. Please note that we accept donations for our Foster Care appeal year-round. Every little bit helps and can profoundly impact a child’s life.

We cannot thank the Beverage Family and Crystal Flash enough for their selfless contribution. Their donation stands as a lasting legacy, not just in the name of their beloved Alice but for the hundreds of children who will benefit from their generosity.

For those who wish to contribute to our Foster Care appeal or have any questions, please contact kvandoeselaar@grpm.org.

Thank you for being an invaluable part of the Grand Rapids Public Museum community. Together, we can make a world of difference.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Closure Notice.

The Museum will be closed on Sunday, March 31 for the Easter Holiday. 

Carousel Update.

The Spillman Carousel is currently closed while we are undergoing riverfront construction. The Carousel will re-open Spring of 2025.

Carousel Update

The 1928 Spillman Carousel is closed while we undergo riverfront construction. The carousel will re-open in the Spring of 2025.