Ways to Give
For over 165 years, the Wagner Free Institute of Science has provided science education in Philadelphia to all ages through programs such as adult courses—the oldest of their kind in the country—lectures, field trips, and children’s lessons. In addition, it is a National Historic Landmark, and maintains over 100,000 natural history specimens for scientific study and a library and archive for scholarly research. In keeping with its charter, all programs are free.
Help spread science literacy, for children and adults, by making a donation to the Wagner!
Online Giving
GIVE TODAY
Use the link above to make a contribution and show your support for William Wagner’s dream and our mission: free, accessible science education.
GIVE MONTHLY
Help ensure the Wagner’s future by becoming a monthly donor. Consistent gifts from loyal supporters will sustain our programs for years to come. To set up monthly giving use the link above and simply select “recurring donation”!
MAKE A TRIBUTE GIFT
The best gifts make a meaningful impact, honor a loved one by supporting free science education in Philadelphia. Use the link above to donate and make sure to select “I would like to dedicate this donation” to provide your honoree’s name and details so we can let them know about your special gift!
MEMBERSHIP
One of the best ways you can help the Institute is to become a member. It’s also the best way to stay informed about what’s going on at the Wagner!
Members at the $100 and above levels also receive reciprocal membership at more than 1,300 museums across the continent through the NARM Association.
GIFT MEMBERSHIP
For the natural science enthusiast in your life! Make sure to select “I would like to give the gift of membership” on the donation form to give the gift of science!
LEIDY SOCIETY
The Leidy Society is our highest level of membership for friends dedicated to sustaining free science in Philadelphia for generations to come. Membership includes an invitation to the annual Leidy Evening, an event which features food, drinks, and a guest speaker who will highlight one facet of the Wagner’s work and mission. Society membership starts at $1,885+.
Offline Giving
MAIL: Send a check by mail to:
Wagner Free Institute of Science
1700 W. Montgomery Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19121
PHONE: Call the Institute at 215-763-6529 x11, Monday-Friday 9am - 5pm, if you’d prefer to contribute over the phone via credit card.
STOCK: If you would like to make a gift of stock to the Wagner this year, contact Susan at SusanG@wagnerfreeinstitute.org for details.
MATCHING GIFTS: If your employer offers a matching gift program, consider doubling your impact this year! Let us know if you need any information from us to utilize your company’s matching opportunity.
IRA Required Minimum Distribution: If you are 70 ½ years or older, you can make a tax-free gift up to $100,000 directly from your IRA. Contact your financial advisor or the firm holding your IRA about contributing directly to the Wagner this year.
Questions? Contact Kelly at:
KellyT [at] Wagnerfreeinstitute.org
215-763-6529 x11
A Sip of Science
A Sip of Science is the Wagner’s annual benefit cocktail party. When you attend, you'll enjoy delicious hors-d'oeuvres and a specialty cocktail while mingling with fellow supporters of accessible science and free education. The party takes place in our captivating Victorian museum, home to over 100,000 natural history specimens and a beautifully preserved historic lecture hall.
Proceeds from the party sustains our historic Institute by helping us to preserve our irreplaceable collections and continue our mission to make science accessible to all, inspiring the next generation of brilliant minds.
A Sip of Science is typically held in the fall each year and honors local luminaries who have had a notable impact in an area related to the Wagner’s mission.