Causes: Arts & Culture, Museums

Mission: The Museum of Friends' mission is to "honor the artists who have freely given art to the museum's founders thereby establishing its collection. MOF honors art and celebrates the generous artists who made possible and gave form to its existence. MOF's primary goals are to foster the open inquiry necessary for a cultural education and its ideals through exhibitions, public and educational programs, while sharing an extensive reference library and permanent collection to bring economic development and job creation to Huerfano Couny.

Results: MOF has been a force of change in Walsenburg since 2005.The grand opening in 2007 drew community members and visitors from up and down the front range looking for alternate social activities to engage in. Since then MOF has organized over 30 changing exhibitions, continues to grow the permanent collection as artists from around the world donate their art works to be part of this unique museum. Children from the area and young tourists participate in the art programs at MOF and at their schools and centers. The "School-Tour" program is the first in the area that encourages children to express themselves in an art museum while learning new skills - the emphasis is STEAM.

Target demographics: Discover the Art History of Southern Colorado with an understanding of contemporary art and the social implications of change through education

Geographic areas served: Walsenburg, Colorado

Programs: Changing Exhibitions of Regional and National Artists, Public and Educational Programs, STEAM for children (pre-K through 12)