Over the past several years, the MCRD Museum Foundation has expanded its outreach in meaningful and transformative ways, evolving the Command Museum into more than a place that preserves history. It has become a living cultural home for our Marine Corps family.

At the heart of our work are three core commitments:

* Educating Marines, recruits, and future generations
* Strengthening and supporting Marine Corps recruiting efforts
* Building lasting connections between the Marine Corps and the broader community

Through education, military and veteran support, and community engagement, we ensure that the values of the Marine Corps continue to inspire beyond the walls of the Museum. We believe that “once a Marine, always a Marine” is more than a phrase, it is a promise to honor service by fostering connection, belonging, and community at the center of everything we do.

Our Programs and Impact

Learn about how your contribution helps the MCRD Museum Foundation make a positive impact in our Marine Community.

Youth Education Program The Education Program provides free field trips, classes, and workshops to K-12 students. The program teaches US history, and the Core Values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment.Click below to submit an application for a field trip to the Command Museum.

Veteran Outreach & Increased Community Engagement Program The Veteran Outreach & Increased Community Engagement (VOICE) Program provides regular opportunities for Marines, veterans, families, and the public to support one another.

Depot/ WWR Support Marines, Sailors, and families stationed on the Depot and WRR maintain a high level of performance in a stressful environment. Depot and WRR Support Programs provide resources and relief to our active duty & families.

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Boys and Girls Club of America The MCRD Museum offers free resources and opportunities for the Boys and Girl Scouts of America. In addition to guided tours, the MCRD Museum offers three badge or award workshops. Classes and volunteer opportunities are also available.Read full bio

T-56/ DOCENT Trained volunteer educators who leads tours, facilitates discussions, and enhances the visitor experience through storytelling and inquiry-based learning. Our Docents are Marine Veterans who help bridge the gap between objects on display and the diverse audiences who come to explore them.

Family Forever An inclusive program for families of those who have died due to their military service. This includes those in all military branches who have died by suicide, in combat, or from other circumstances. We partner with local organizations to put on events that build connections among this important community.

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Col. Nate Smith Scholarship Awarded in honor of Colonel Nate Smith, this annual scholarship is available to enlisted Marines, Sailors, and Dependents of MCRD San Diego/Western Recruiting Region.

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Intern and Volunteer Program Like most organizations, our strength comes from our people. We are deeply grateful for our excellent team of volunteers, docents, educators, board members, administrative assistants, and event coordinators. Whether you are a student, retired adult, someone looking to build your resume, or just want to make a meaningful contribution with your time, there is a spot for you on our team.Read full bio

Gary Sinise Foundation Serving the children and surviving spouses of fallen military & first responder heroes, our "Snowball Express" families, through year-round programming and support that reminds them they are never alone and their hero is never forgotten.

Tele-Health Mental Health Services In Collaboration with the University of San Diego, Veterans and their family members can receive mental health care services at no cost to those seeking treatment. Clinic is virtual, providing tele-mental healthcare in confidential, video therapy sessions to our veteran families in California.

Sponsor a Family We partnered with the Cushman Foundation to create a pilot program intended to reduce the financial burden of Marine families that would prevent them from attending their Marine’s graduation. This program offsets the basic travel costs for family members to attend their Marine’s graduation.

More information Interested in learning more about about our programs, volunteering, internships, or partnership opportunities with the MCRD Museum Foundation? Submit an email below.

More information on our Programs

Please contact us at marketing@mcrdmhs.org

1600 Hochmuth Ave. San Diego, CA 92140 Building 26