Inspiring Stories
Celebrating your philanthropy
Many of us are familiar with the expression ‘the people make the place’ and nowhere is this truer than at ROM. The Museum would not be a world-class cultural institution without the generous support of so many individuals, families and corporations. Here are just a few stories of ROM volunteers and donors who have gone above and beyond.
Hundreds of ROM supporters gathered at the Museum on May 8, 2013 for the annual Chairs’ Reception, which celebrates philanthropy at the Museum.
ROM Governor Alf Wirth has visited hundreds of museums. We caught up with him in the Wirth Gallery of the Middle East—one of many ROM initiatives he has generously supported.
“Coming to the ROM was the best part of my childhood,” says Tom Hilditch. Like many kids in Ontario, he was a member of the Saturday Morning Club for years.
At 26, Peggy Lau is the youngest member of the ROM’s Currelly Society—a group of individuals who have promised future gifts to the Museum.
Like many moms in Toronto, Gwen Harvey brought her children to the ROM to see the dinosaurs and experience the bat cave.
“When I was three years old I was already a ‘fashion freak,’” says Dr. Marian Fowler, laughing. “I think it’s in your genes because my grandmother was the same way."
Jennifer Ivey Bannock has been a long-time friend and supporter of the ROM.Stemming in part from her years as a fashion model, she has a genuine appreciation for textiles and haute couture.
As one of the top volunteers and supporters of the Museum’s textiles and costume collection, Patricia Harris was invited to the ROM for a behind-the-scenes unveiling of a Christian Dior dress.
On November, 16, 2012 members of the Young Patrons Circle (YPC) and friends got the VIP treatment at a special Friday Night Live (FNL) VIP cocktail gathering.
Together, we raised over $26,000 in support of the Museum's highest priorities, including the future Gallery of Early Life!