Museum secures DAR grant for WWII flag conservation and launches community programs

The City of Waterloo Council held a work session on February 17, 2025, focusing on various community initiatives and museum developments. The meeting began with a report on the conservation of a World War II flag, which has garnered significant local support. The project, estimated at $10,000, has received $6,700 in community funding, with a grant application submitted to the National DAR Foundation for the remaining $4,500. The city expects to hear back about the grant in April.

The council also discussed the hiring of a new community educator following the departure of the previous staff member. The museum continues to run its "Wise Girls" program in partnership with the YWCA and has initiated a new program with Cedar Valley Angels, providing themed nights for foster care families at the museum.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the museum's reaccreditation by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), a process that ensures the institution meets high standards of excellence. The museum identified three priority areas for improvement: collections stewardship, long-term fundraising strategies, and board development. The council noted the importance of addressing a backlog of artifacts, with funding from the Gallagher Family Foundation allowing for the hiring of a cataloger to assist in this effort.

The meeting also touched on the creation of a calming room for museum visitors and the planning of mini renovations to accommodate new acquisitions. The museum is preparing for its annual fundraiser, a Mardi Gras trivia event scheduled for March 1, which marks a shift from previous fall fundraising efforts.

Council members expressed interest in the museum's donation trends, noting a decline in private donations. The museum plans to launch a targeted spring appeal and adjust its fall appeal to align with end-of-year giving patterns.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to community engagement and the ongoing development of the museum, with several initiatives aimed at enhancing visitor experience and ensuring financial sustainability. The council looks forward to continued collaboration and support for these projects.