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Support the Historical Society of Michigan

Help support the Historical Society of Michigan's programming, outreach, publications, and services for future generations. 

Your impact on Michigan's history

The Historical Society of Michigan (HSM) is a nongovernmental, nonprofit with a unique Michigan history education mission, and is not part of Michigan’s state government. Although the state Legislature has designated HSM the state’s official historical society, that role does not come with annual appropriations in the state budget. We rely on friends, members, and donors to support an ever-increasing amount of Michigan history programming.

Let us know how we can help! Call us at (800) 692-1828 or email Director of Development Kim Loftus at loftus@hsmichigan.org and Development Coordinator Kayla Nelson at nelson@hsmichigan.org for assistance.

HSM Annual Report 2023

Your Support in 2023

Every year, the Historical Society of Michigan releases its annual report, the HSM Update, that shares new and emerging programs, progress, and more. It is also where the full list of donors is shared.

To view our full list of 2023 donors, click here.

The Historical Society of Michigan Seal

Support our organization in your end-of-year giving

The Historical Society of Michigan is hosting its annual appeal campaign, and the books, maps, and gifts are back! Support Michigan's history for future generations and receive a gift as a small token of our appreciation. We thank you for your support!

HSM's Legacy Circle

HSM's Legacy Circle Logo

Create a legacy that ensures Michigan history education programming continues for future generations. The Legacy Legacy Circle was established in 2013 to recognize people who have included our nonprofit in their wills, living trusts, and other estate-planning vehicles. We are grateful for gifts of all sizes—it is for everyone who values history. Even a small gift can make a big difference to our ability to continue supporting Michigan's history for future generations.

Making Gifts with Qualified Charitable Donations

Man typing on a laptop

When individuals take distributions from their Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), it counts as income for tax purposes. An IRA charitable rollover, also called a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD), is an exception. If you are aged 70 1/2 or older, you can distribute up to $105,000 each year from your IRAs to your favorite 501(c)(3) without counting the distribution as income. That’s what makes this such a good way to give. Donating directly from your IRA avoids any taxes and allows you to preserve the post-tax money that you already have.

Gifts of Stocks and Securities

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Appreciated securities or mutual fund shares that you have owned for more than one year are excellent charitable gifts. When you gift stocks and other securities directly to HSM, you make an impact without taking money directly out of your bank account. Plus, neither you nor HSM will be taxed on the gains for appreciated assets you donate. Meet your giving goals, enjoy potential tax benefits, and support Michigan history education programming. That’s a triple-win!

Make a Recurring Monthly Gift

Pushnell family at the Local History Conference

Giving a modest amount each month creates a steady, reliable source of funds to help HSM reach more people with programs and services. With monthly giving, you are free to set it and forget it, knowing that your donation continues to help HSM with the ease of an auto-payment. And you can cancel your monthly gift any time. We know that monthly giving isn’t right for everyone and we deeply appreciate your support, no matter how you choose to give.

Will you make a recurring monthly gift to help the HSM continue to provide high quality Michigan history education programming? To become a Friend of HSM and make a monthly recurring gift, enroll and make your first donation by credit card or bank draft here.

Sponsor Our Programs

Man standing in front of Milestone Award

The generosity of sponsors helps support our Michigan history programming, including history conferences, Michigan History Day® for students, content in our history magazines, multiple educational programs, as well as special projects. Sponsors receive recognition for enhancing the understanding of our state’s fascinating history. For more information, email Director of Development Kim Loftus at loftus@hsmichigan.org or Development Coordinator Kayla Nelson at nelson@hsmichigan.org.

Volunteer

Volunteer for HSM - Hands Raised in Action

The Historical Society of Michigan offers fulfilling volunteer opportunities related to our yearlong Michigan History Day® academic competition program for students in the 3rd through 12th grade. No special training is required to be a volunteer judge at regional or State Finals competitions. The input given to students by judges about their history projects is invaluable and promotes their growth and understanding.

Get the most out of Michigan's history

Did you know we offer a membership program tailored to families, organizations, and businesses? With a Historical Society of Michigan membership, everyone can receive our programs, publications, and more for the best deals around. Each membership includes our popular Michigan History and Chronicle magazines, weekly access to free History Hounds lectures, discounts on workshops and conferences, and much more. 

Michigan History and Chronicle magazine

Questions? 

Reach out to our team today at hsm@hsmichigan.org or by calling (800) 692-1828.