GRAND FORKS – Oxford Realty has contributed $500,000 to the Grand Forks Children’s Museum Capital Campaign, according to a recent announcement. The contribution consists of a $250,000 cash pledge and $250,000 in in-kind donations. The donation brings the museum campaign closer to achieving its goal of raising $45 million, which will be used to build the two-story, 28,000-square-foot structure, as well as exhibits and operations, Katie Mayer, executive director of Grand Forks Children’s Museum, said in a recent Herald interview.
"(The museum) will be a dynamic space where imagination knows no boundaries," Mayer said. ADVERTISEMENT The campaign has raised 62% of its financial goal, with hopes of breaking ground for the facility in 2025. Once ground is broken, it is expected there will be a two-year period of construction, Mayer said.
The museum’s board of directors is considering two locations for the Grand Forks Children’s Museum and Destination Park, one near the Choice Health and Fitness facility on South Washington and the other south of the Alerus Center on 42nd Street South. A final decision on a location is expected this fall. Meanwhile, fundraising efforts – including naming opportunities ranging from $50,000 to $10 million – have been successful and are continuing, Mayer said.
This $500,000 donation from Oxford Realty, is the “result of the extraordinary generosity of Oxford Realty’s owners, Real Estate Agents, and staff,” according to a news releas.