The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) has inspired generations of community members for 52 years. The IMAS celebrates the museum and its impact in the communty with an invitation of support on the inaugural IMAS Day of Giving on Wednesday, October 7, 2020.
The IMAS Day of Giving events will include online premieres of both art and science content, special presentations, and the kick-off of an online silent auction which will conclude after a replay of this summer’s Brew-seum@Home on Saturday, October 24.
“IMAS is a vital community asset. We inspire, educate, and motivate our youth and families to use the science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) skills they learn at the museum to build their knowledge and continually improve our community,” stated Ann Fortescue, President and Executive Director of IMAS. “We are truly grateful for your support – together we’re ensuring the long-term sustainability of IMAS for the next half-century and future generations.”
Tune in to the IMAS social media @imasmuseum on Instagram and @imasmcallen on Facebook on October 7. Visit support.theimasonline.org for details and to donate, or text IMASGIVING to 44-321 to make a donation to the IMAS, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
- Last year, IMAS welcomed over 60,000 visitors to the museum and reached an additional 14,200 through community outreach presentations.
- IMAS Educators prepare engaging and educational online and in-person programs that foster life-long learning for over 30,000 school-aged children annually.
- Donations make a significant difference for IMAS to inspire and educate our community through art and science exhibits and programs regardless of age, language barriers or economic status.
- Over 100 original, free lessons and workshops produced and available online through IMAS channels for community youth.
- Over 53% of the IMAS visitors each year are children ages 3 to 12. The impact of each dollar raised through IMAS supporters is tremendous for the Rio Grande Valley.
- The IMAS cares for over 15,000 objects in the public trust including over 4,000 works of Mexican & Latin American folk art and more than 2,000 natural history and geology specimen.
Founders of the IMAS started a legacy 53 years ago to establish a permanent collection that would inspire and educate our community. Your contribution will extend its benefit to future generations.
Historical Significance
On October 7, 1968, the Junior League Museum Board entered into a lease agreement with the City of McAllen for a 5,000 square foot building. Shortly after, a Board of Trustees was appointed and by-laws were adopted. The initial funding came from donations by local business firms, civic organizations, and individuals. An Executive Director was employed in June 1969, and building renovations were completed. The Museum was dedicated and formally opened to the public on October 26, 1969.
