Murfreesboro, TN – Earlier this year, the Nissan Foundation named the Discovery Center in Murfree Spring a 2024 grant recipient. The Nissan Foundation grant will help fund the Discovery Center’s Cultural Heritage Free Day Program, which is designed to celebrate the diversity of Murfreesboro and surrounding communities.
“The generous support of the Nissan Foundation has been instrumental in making our Cultural Heritage Free Day Program a reality,” said Tara MacDougall, president and CEO of the Discovery Center. “Thanks to this initiative, we are able to welcome visitors of all ages to the Discovery Center for free and offer them the opportunity to participate in special programs and events that celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Rutherford County.”
The Nissan Foundation awarded grants totaling $1.2 million to 44 nonprofit organizations for its 2024 grant cycle announced earlier this year. The nonprofit recipients are located in Atlanta, Central Mississippi, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Middle Tennessee, New York City/New Jersey, Southeast Michigan and Southern California – all locations where Nissan has an operational presence.
“We are honored to support the work of the Discovery Center,” said Chandra Vasser, president of the Nissan Foundation and Nissan’s first Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer. “The Nissan Foundation seeks to build community by valuing diversity, and these Discovery Center culture-free days bring that mission to life.”
In the 32 years since the Nissan Foundation was founded, it has awarded nearly $17 million to over 150 nonprofit organizations to support innovative programs that break down social barriers and build inclusive communities through education and outreach. Grantees promote cultural diversity in a variety of arts, education, social and public service programs in seven U.S. communities where Nissan operates.
Founded in 1986, the Discovery Center is an interactive environmental, cultural and educational museum located in downtown Murfreesboro at 502 SE Broad Street, adjacent to the protected Murfree Spring wetlands. The museum’s Cultural Heritage Free Day Program offers free admission and special events celebrating Murfreesboro’s diverse cultures. The initiative educates and connects the community with programs such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Arts in April, Discover India Day and Hispanic Heritage Day.
“We are incredibly proud to offer the Cultural Heritage Free Day Program thanks to the continued support of the Nissan Foundation,” said MacDougall. “These free days not only provide access to our museum, but also foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultures that enrich our community. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating and learning.”
The Nissan Foundation was founded in 1992 in response to the riots in Southern California that occurred near Nissan North America’s then U.S. sales and marketing facility following the verdict in the Rodney King trial. Nissan established a $5 million endowment to promote cultural diversity.
Nissan Foundation grants are awarded annually. Nonprofit organizations committed to bringing diverse cultural perspectives, experiences and voices to communities across the country may be eligible to apply for a Nissan Foundation grant. For more information on all 2024 Nissan Foundation grant recipients, visit www.NissanFoundation.com. For more information on the Nissan Foundation and its application process, visit the Nissan Foundation page.
MORE: Enjoy the Discovery Center seven days a week through Labor Day. Don’t miss your chance for more time to discover, learn and play. Whether exploring the interactive exhibits or participating in the summer activities, there are endless opportunities for summer fun.
Tuesday, August 26 is your last chance this summer to enjoy Half Price Tuesdays. Experience extended Discovery Center hours and half price admission from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Immerse yourself in educational entertainment and interactive exhibits for only $6 per person. See you there!
Address: Discovery Center of Murfree Spring is located at 502 SE Broad Street in Murfreesboro, TN (37130).
