Desert Sage Society
Join a special group of Museum supporters who are passionate about the Museum and its mission. Become a Desert Sage Society patron.
The Desert Sage Society is our community of leadership supporters who contribute $1,000 or more annually to support the High Desert Museum’s mission to wildly excite and responsibly teach.
As a Desert Sage Society patron, you’ll enjoy a more intimate connection with the Museum, its leadership, fellow supporters, and the exhibitions and collections that bring the High Desert to life.
Desert Sage Society Experiences
All Desert Sage Society patrons enjoy exclusive Museum experiences, with additional opportunities for deeper engagement at each leadership level. Experiences may include exhibition previews, curator conversations, select program access, and special updates.
Note: Desert Sage Society support is separate from Museum membership. To purchase a Museum membership, click here.
Desert Sage Society Circles of Support
Fellow’s Circle ($1,000)
- Year-round VIP Museum access privileges
- Invitations to Desert Sage Society gatherings and exhibition openings
- Insider updates through Desert Sage Quarterly
- Recognition on the Desert Sage Society donor board in the Schnitzer Entrance Hall and in the annual report
Curator’s Circle ($2,500)
- All Fellow opportunities
- Priority invitations to select programs and experiences, such as Raptors of the Desert Sky
- Curator led exhibition viewings and conversation
Steward’s Circle ($5,000)
- All previous opportunities
- Exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences
- Access to the High Desert Museum travel program
Director’s Council ($10,000)
- All previous opportunities
- Private curator-led tour of the Museum’s vault for up to 8 people
- Opportunities to engage more directly with Museum leadership
Founder’s Circle ($25,000)
- Offering the highest level of engagement and connection.
- All previous opportunities
- Annual Founder’s Circle dinner with Museum leadership
- Direct connection to institutional priorities and vision
How to Give
Become a Desert Sage Society patron with a gift of $1,000 or more. You may make your gift online or by sending a check payable to the High Desert Museum to:
High Desert Museum
59800 South Highway 97
Bend, OR 97702
For more information, or to donate with stocks, ACH or a credit card, please call 541-382-4754 or contact us.
Strengthen your community and enhance employee benefits by partnering with the High Desert Museum as a corporate donor.
Desert Sage Society FAQ
Desert Sage Society is a giving circle and is separate from Museum membership. However, DSS patrons enjoy year-round Museum access as part of their recognition.
Desert Sage Society patrons receive invitations throughout the year for special events, programs and experiences. You are also welcome to reach out anytime to learn more about opportunities available at your tier or to schedule a visit or experience with the Museum.
Yes. Gifts from donor advised funds can support the Museum and count toward Desert Sage Society recognition. Because DSS opportunities focus on engagement with the Museum rather than tangible benefits, many patrons choose to give through their DAF.
Desert Sage Society patrons enjoy access to curated travel experiences that explore art, culture, history and the natural world, with expert guides and special behind-the-scenes opportunities.
You are recognized as a Desert Sage Society patron in any year you donate $1,000 or more. Many patrons choose to give annually—often through recurring gifts—and remain part of the Society for many years.