Reciprocal Organizational Partnership Program Launched
From MVHC President Frank Butwin:
The MVHC recently launched a new program to invite organizations in our 7 county focus area to be partners with the MVHC. In the past, we have had a an organizational membership category for museums, historical & genealogical societies, park districts, heritage & cultural sites, libraries, battle sites, recreational trail clubs, soil & water conservation districts, chambers of commerce, visitor bureaus, and others that embrace our mission. There are over 100 groups that could be partners. The dues varied over time but ended up as $100. Sometimes we just exchanged checks. This was a hassle and only one group did it. There are 3 fairly large groups (TMACOG, Destination Toledo, and Ohio Local History Alliance) where we pay their organizational membership dues but they don’t pay to be members of MVHC.
It is our mission to promote many of the above mentioned groups and we want to partner with them to facilitate that promotion without the restrictiveness of paying dues. We only had one partner but want to have over 100. If they are partners, we would be able to advertise their organization, historic presentations, festivals, and events. And they could do the same for the MVHC. Often times, our region’s sites and events are only known to the local folk.
Collectively with our partners, we can have a stronger voice and can make more of an impact furthering our mutual missions. We can share resources such as a speakers, re-enactor groups, brochures, and vendor contacts. We can provide links to organization websites and share social media posts & newsletters. This will expand the awareness of each organization to our target audience. And, having partners gives us better leverage for grant applications and funding.
So far we have reached out to about 15 organizations. I want to welcome these new partners:
Tree Toledo
Tree Toledo (www.treetoledo.org) is an all-volunteer effort that distributes free tree seedlings and spreads awareness of the importance of trees for the climate and beautification of our corridor. Check them out.
Henry County Chamber of Commerce
The Henry County Chamber of Commerce (www.henrycountychamber.org), based in Napoleon, Ohio, strongly supports the businesses, other organizations, and activities throughout Henry County.
Wood County Historical Society
The Wood County Historical Museum (www.woodcountyhistory.org), based in Bowling Green, Ohio, promotes and exhibits the history of Wood County though many events and displays at the Wood County Museum, the renovated county infirmary, located southeast of the I-75 and US 6 intersection.
