Giving Hearts Day is February 12, 2026 

Giving Hearts Day returns on February 12, 2026, uniting communities in 24 hours of generosity to support nonprofits across the state and region. As a long-time participant, we are incredibly grateful for the impact this day of giving makes on our mission.  

What Is Giving Hearts Day? 

Giving Hearts Day is one of the largest fundraising events in the region, supporting charities across North Dakota and northwest Minnesota through online giving. Early giving is open, allowing donors to make an impact before February 12. 

Reaching Students Wherever They Are 

North Dakota’s Gateway to Science serves learners both onsite in Bismarck and statewide through Gateway to Science on the Go. Each year, educators travel to rural, remote, and underserved communities to deliver hands-on STEM experiences through: 

• STEMzones
• Classroom workshops 
• Community events 
• Mobile planetarium shows 

For many rural schools, traveling to a science center isn’t feasible. We flip that model by bringing learning directly to students, and schools are never charged for travel costs. 

To ensure equitable access, a school never pays for: 

• Mileage across long distances 
• Overnight lodging or per diem 
• Extended staff time 

In a state as large and geographically diverse as North Dakota, these costs add up quickly. Donor support ensures that a school’s location never determines access to high-quality STEM learning. 

Supporting Access at the Science Center 

Giving Hearts Day donations also support access for families visiting the gallery exhibits through Museums for All, a national reduced-admission program. 

Through Museums for All, families who qualify can visit the science center at a significantly reduced rate, helping remove financial barriers and ensuring that hands-on learning remains accessible to everyone. 

Get Involved This Giving Hearts Day 

There are several ways to support Gateway to Science on February 12: 

• Make a donation at GivingHeartsDay.org 
• Mail or drop off a donation at 1600 Canary Ave., Bismarck, ND 58501 or stop by the front desk. We’ll write your name on a heart to display in the science center. 
• Volunteer as a visitor guide or program assistant 
• Donate supplies from our wish list 

Every gift helps ensure that everyone can explore science, build confidence, and develop problem-solving skills that last a lifetime.