Spotlight on Dayton Society of Natural History and the Boonshoft Museum
Photo courtesy of Ohio's Largest Playgrounds
We love showcasing the interesting work of our different clients. Every organization provides something integral to our everyday lives – from tanker trucks moving fuel to the resealable bag that keeps your favorite chips fresh. There are also organizations designed simply to give back and improve life in our communities. The Dayton Society of Natural History (DSoNH) has been enriching minds in southwestern Ohio for decades, with its origin as a museum going all the way back to 1893. The organization now includes the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery and Sunwatch Indian Village & Archaeological Park. For those unfamiliar with the museum – there is truly something for all ages. Their hands-on science exhibits are a hit with kids of all ages, but the museum also includes a number of learning labs, nature-focused areas, and even an AZA accredited zoo with critters from all over the globe. The grown-ups can keep an eye out for their laser light shows in the planetarium, summer block parties and their big fundraising Boonshoft Bash in August.
We recently spoke to their Marketing Director, Taylor Hoffman to learn more about their mission, and how to get involved.
What is DSoNH’s mission?
Our mission is to be the regional go-to for STEM education, natural history, astronomy - and fun, informal learning about the world around us. We’re a children’s museum as well as a science center, natural history museum, planetarium and AZA accredited zoo!
How can businesses or members of the community get involved and help? We have plenty of opportunities for both corporate and individual sponsorships, and several ways to get involved. The events we host throughout the year partially rely on corporate sponsorships. Our Amazon wish lists are updated with items needed for the Education Department and the Discovery Zoo. If you shop with Amazon, Kroger, or GFS, you can set us as your non-profit of choice and a percentage of your purchases will be donated to DSoNH. You can sponsor a seat in our newly renovated planetarium or take part in our Adopt an Animal program. Donors can also contribute safely through our website. Our existing exhibits can be costly to upkeep, and new exhibits (like the Dayton Dinosaur) can cost upwards of one million dollars to put in place. Membership is a great way to support us, too! We have several different membership levels available to suit everyone’s needs.
Do you have any volunteer opportunities? Yes, we need volunteers at both Boonshoft and Sunwatch. People can volunteer their time individually, and we’re also happy to accommodate larger groups of volunteers. Several area companies have provided employees with paid time away to do volunteer work, and we could always use the help.
What would you like to share that’s a little-known fact about DSoNH?
Many people don’t know that we’re here – and those who do still may not realize the depth of what DSoNH offers. When we merged with Dayton Childrens Museum in the ‘80s, the idea of being geared towards a younger audience followed us – and people don’t know that we have something to interest all ages. We have plenty for adults as well, not just the little ones! We have so many exciting things coming in 2023, and we want curious minds of all ages to come see what we’re doing here.
