Fort Collins Museum of Discovery to Host Community Dance Party and Donation Drive November 21
The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery will host a donation-driven dance party November 21 from 5 to 8 p.m., partnering with Homeward Alliance to collect essential winter items for Northern Colorado families experiencing homelessness.
The event, titled "AbunDANCE: A Giving Rave," transforms the museum's monthly member night into a community fundraising opportunity. Museum members receive free admission, while non-members can enter by donating a clothing or food item from an approved list.
Homeward Alliance, which served over 5,500 individuals in 2023 through its housing assistance and emergency services programs, identified critical shortages in winter survival gear. The organization operates the Murphy Center in downtown Fort Collins, which hosts 200 to 300 daily visitors during peak periods seeking basic services including meals, showers, and case management.
The museum will accept winter coats, hats, gloves, jeans, hoodies, thermals, leggings, hiking boots, snow boots, sleeping bags, and backpacks. New hygiene items, ramen cups, oatmeal packets, protein snacks, and gift cards valued at $5 or more to fast food restaurants or discount stores are also needed.
All donated items will go directly to Homeward Alliance Family Services to support families in Larimer County.
The museum opened in 2012 through a public-private partnership merging the City of Fort Collins Museum and Discovery Science Center. The institution now serves as a regional educational hub, receiving American Alliance of Museums accreditation in 2018.
Homeward Alliance became a Community Circle partner with the museum, joining a network of 15 local organizations including Care Housing, Family Housing Network, and La Familia that collaborate to increase access to museum resources for underserved populations.
The November 21 event will feature a live DJ set, glow sticks, light graffiti, flow-art activities, and access to the museum's OtterBox Digital Dome Theater as a zen zone. RSVPs are encouraged but not required.
The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is located at 408 Mason Court. The museum offers around 400 science and culture programs annually, serving over 1.25 million visitors since opening.