Connect to a Cause 2026

 

For 12 hours on Thursday, September 17, 2026, Lorain County will come together to support the nonprofits that make our community stronger. From 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Connect to a Cause offers a simple, meaningful way to give back—and The Spirit of ’76 Museum is honored to be part of it.

When you make a gift to The Spirit of ’76 Museum during this community-wide campaign hosted by the Community Foundation of Lorain County, you help protect the stories, artifacts, and memories that connect Wellington and Southern Lorain County to their past. Your support helps ensure that local history is not only preserved, but shared, experienced, and passed on to future generations.

Where Your Donation Goes

Every dollar raised for The Spirit of ’76 Museum during Connect to a Cause will directly support the treatment plan for the 1896 McKinley for President banner and help grow the museum’s endowment. This important work helps us care for a rare piece of political and local history while building long-term support for the museum’s future.

Your gift also strengthens the museum’s ability to care for important artifacts, improve exhibits, and keep local history accessible to visitors, students, researchers, and families. During Connect to a Cause, donations may also help participating organizations qualify for bonus dollars based on the total raised throughout the day—making your generosity go even further.

Be Part of the Day

Giving is quick and easy. On September 17, visit peoplewhocare.org and choose The Spirit of ’76 Museum from the online giving catalog. Donations can be made online during the 12-hour event window, and gifts by cash or check may also count toward the day’s fundraising totals.

Supporters who want to maximize their impact may also consider tax-smart giving options, including gifts of stock, donor-advised fund grants, or Qualified Charitable Distributions.

Help Spread the Word

You can help even if you are not ready to give. Share the campaign with friends, family, classmates, coworkers, and neighbors who care about history and community. A quick

post, email, or conversation can introduce someone new to the museum’s work and inspire them to take part.

Together, we can make this year’s Connect to a Cause our most meaningful yet. Your gift helps preserve a treasured banner, strengthen the museum’s future, and keep the stories of our community alive.

Event details: Thursday, September 17, 2026, 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. Give through the Connect to a Cause catalog at peoplewhocare.org.