MOCA Jacksonville, a cultural institute of the University of North Florida, has partnered with CSX and Blue Star Museums to offer free admission to the families of active duty and former military and first responders from Armed Forces Day on May 17 through Veterans Day on Nov. 11.
The Blue Star Museum initiative is a collaboration between the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense and more than 2,000 museums nationwide that wish to show appreciation for military families who face multiple deployments and reintegration challenges.
To support this program, CSX partnered with MOCA Jacksonville to expand this free admission opportunity to include not only active-duty military, but also former military and first responders. This year, CSX provided additional support to expand the program to run through Veterans Day, while the Blue Star program ends on Labor Day, providing more than two months of additional free access.
“We are thrilled to extend our support to military families and the first responder community through our partnership with MOCA Jacksonville,” said LaSandra Boykin, community investments director at CSX. “Through our signature philanthropic initiative, Pride in Service, CSX supports hundreds of thousands of active-duty, veteran and first responder service members across our rail network, while also representing the pride the company has in serving our hometown of Jacksonville. MOCA is a Jacksonville treasure with something for everyone to discover, and this partnership underscores our commitment to military families and first responders by providing them with free access to the enriching experiences offered at the museum. This partnership allows us to show our gratitude and ‘serve those who serve.’ Thank you for your dedication to our community and nation.”
Through its commitment to community building, MOCA Jacksonville provides access to arts and educational experiences for the entire community, introduces contemporary art to thousands of students in Duval County through school tours and family programming and supports local artists through opportunities to exhibit, teach and enhance programming at the museum.
With an ambitious program schedule, MOCA provides a platform for community discussion and debate, critical and creative thinking and cultural exploration while acting as a vital community convener for creative conversation.
To access this program, bring valid military or first responder identification. Those who qualify are welcome to bring up to five family members. Learn more about visiting MOCA Jacksonville online at mocajacksonville.unf.edu.
Operational support for MOCA Jacksonville is provided by the City of Jacksonville, the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, the MOCA Jacksonville Board of Trustees, the MOCA Director's Circle and the University of North Florida.
