Walmart Foundation Gives $1.5 Million to the Amazeum

February 26, 2014

A traveling exhibit gallery will be part of the Amazeum, a planned interactive family museum in Bentonville, thanks to a $1.5 million donation from the Walmart Foundation.

"We are overwhelmed by this donation and are thrilled to have the Walmart Foundation as a signature partner going forward," said Sam Dean, executive director of the Amazeum. "We are very appreciative of this generous commitment, which gives us a big boost in our quest to reach our capital campaign goal of $28.5 million."

The addition of a traveling exhibit gallery will allow the Amazeum to bring in new exhibitions throughout the year by creating a dedicated space inside the museum, which will be located near Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.

"The benefits that the Amazeum offers will improve the lives of children throughout Northwest Arkansas, and we are proud of this partnership," said Scott Pope, Walmart Corporate Affairs. "We believe that projects like this will enhance the quality of life for thousands of our residents, and continue to make Northwest Arkansas a great place to live."

"Our goal for the Amazeum is to make it a fun, positive and educational experience for everyone," said Dean. "The ability to host traveling exhibits from around the country is a significant factor in shaping our museum, giving us the flexibility to keep things fresh and new for our community."

The Amazeum's Steering Committee continues to seek additional sponsors. For more information about the Amazeum and to learn about opportunities, to support the museum, contact Molly Rawn at mrawn@amazeum.org or visit the website at amazeum.org for additional information.  

About the Amazeum

The Amazeum will feature 44,500 square feet of exhibit, meeting and learning spaces inside the museum and bring learning to life and enhance family involvement, while evoking a sense of curiosity and discovery through hands-on activities. Interactive exhibits will engage visitors with the land, industries and people that built the Arkansas culture and sustain it today. Exhibitions include the Tinkering Studio, water area, climbable tree canopy and an exploratory wet lab.

In addition, approximately one acre of outdoor space will accommodate year-round learning and provide a backdrop for experiments and experiences inspired by the seasons. The facility will also include a venue for businesses and organizations to host gatherings, productions and special events.

About Philanthropy at Walmart 

Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are committed to helping people live better through philanthropic efforts. By operating globally and giving back locally, Walmart is uniquely positioned to address the needs of the communities it serves and make a significant social impact within its core areas of giving: Hunger Relief & Healthy Eating, Sustainability, Career Opportunity and Women's Economic Empowerment. Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are leading the fight against hunger in the United States with a $2 billion commitment through 2015. Walmart has donated more than 1 billion meals to those in need across the country. To learn more about Walmart's giving, visit foundation.walmart.com.