Membership

Nonprofit Access Membership Program

An opportunity for local nonprofits to enjoy and share the benefits of nature.

Content Detail

The Morton Arboretum’s Nonprofit Access Membership Program provides local nonprofit organizations that serve vulnerable populations a cost-effective option for program participants to visit the Arboretum.

The Arboretum seeks to deepen relationships with community partners and facilitate beneficial experiences for the diverse populations that make up the Chicago area. The Nonprofit Access Membership Program represents a meaningful commitment to providing equitable access to the Arboretum and supports local nonprofits in sharing the benefits of nature with people throughout our region.

Eligibility

Eligible organizations will:

  • Be registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
  • Seek to provide enrichment activities for those they serve through non-facilitated, self-guided access to the Arboretum’s grounds
  • Provide direct service to people in DuPage, Will, Cook, and Kane counties
  • Agree to meet the program’s entry requirements
  • Serve vulnerable populations that experience obstacles to nature and its many benefits, such as:
    • Older adults
    • Low-income families
    • Individuals with disabilities
    • Veterans
    • BIPOC
    • LGBTQ+ individuals
    • Survivors of domestic or sexual violence
    • Individuals with substance use or other chronic mental health disorders
    • Individuals with refugee/asylum status
    • Individuals who are unhoused
    • Youth in foster care

Qualifying organizations would include, but are not limited to:

  • Special recreation associations
  • Social service agencies
  • Developmental centers
  • Community groups
  • Schools primarily serving students with disabilities

Organizations that do not meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to contact the registrar’s office to schedule group admissions, field trips, and other activities at a low group rate.

The Arboretum also advances access and affordability options for individuals through discounted admission programs.

Levels, Benefits, and Pricing

Nonprofit Access Morton 6

The Nonprofit Access Morton 6 membership includes:

  • $125 annual dues
  • Unlimited, free admission for up to six program participants, and up to six companions/aides
  • Discounted pricing for tram rides
  • Up to two (2) $5 add-on admissions per visit for additional participants accompanying the Nonprofit Access organization
  • Free parking
  • Members-only access from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. daily
  • Discounted pricing for events and education programs

Nonprofit Access Partner

The Nonprofit Access Partner membership includes:

  • $250 annual dues
  • Unlimited, free admission for up to ten program participants, and up to ten companions/aides
  • Free, unlimited tram rides
  • Up to two (2) $5 add-on admissions per visit for additional participants accompanying the Nonprofit Access organization
  • Free parking
  • Members-only access from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. daily
  • Discounted pricing for events and education programs

If budget constraints are a barrier to your organization’s participation in the Nonprofit Access Membership Program, please reach out to Paul Gooding, membership sales manager, at (630) 725-2064 or pgooding@mortonarb.org to discuss options.

Entry Requirements

Free admission is extended exclusively to program participants, aides, and program staff during a visit led by the participating organization.

The membership is not intended for the independent use by staff, individuals, or families served by the nonprofit organization.

Physical membership cards will be issued in the name of the participating organization and must be presented at the gatehouse for entry.

The membership is nontransferable and nonrefundable. Membership may be canceled if these requirements are not met.