Brazos Valley African American Museum in need of more members

A local museum is in desperate need of more members.

The Brazos Valley African American Museum operates on a budget of more than $100,000 each year.

This summer they are doing a membership drive. The goal is to have 500 members in just 45 days.

From African American music to showcasing athletes from across our community, the Brazos Valley African American Museum provides snapshots in time from past to present. There are exhibits on local residents, the painful past of segregation and slavery to African American contributions to society,

"We had a terrific time. I really love coming here. This is my nephew Jordyn. He's from North Carolina and I wanted him to experience some culture here in the Brazos Valley," said Nichole Williams of Bryan.

"We are a non-profit and we depend on the community for donations and support and our membership. This is a very important campaign and we're hoping to reach those 500 members in the next 45 days," said Crystal Carter, Brazos Valley African American Museum Director.

The membership drive is seeing success. So far, they have about 80 members since they launched the campaign June 16.

One of the newest exhibits showcases area athletes.

"Just come by and see our exhibits. Come visit the museum. It's an exciting place to come to see what we have here," said George Jackson.

Jackson's impact as an athlete is on display. In the early 70s, he was one of the first black tennis players at Bryan High School.

"It’s been a remarkable carer myself as an athlete," he said. "Without people, we wouldn't be in business. We wouldn't be here and so hopefully we can keep bringing more people in to introduce ourselves to them," said Oliver Sadberry, Brazos Valley African American Museum Curator.

"I would just love for the community to come out and support the museum. You know it's a great place to visit full of good culture and it's a part of our community," said Williams.

The museum is also hosting an art camp for kids later this summer for ages 8 to 13. They are July 9 through 13 and August 6 through 10. We have more details in the related links section of this story.