COEUR d’ALENE — The Museum of North Idaho received a donation that will help fund the facility’s growth — and the donor has issued a challenge to the community. 

Larry Running has pledged a $10,000 matching gift to the museum’s building fund, officials announced this week. 

Running’s commitment comes with a promise that every dollar donated to the building fund will be matched, dollar for dollar, up to $10,000. That means each dollar of support can go twice as far, turning $10,000 into $20,000 and propelling the Museum of North Idaho forward. 

The building fund is central to the museum’s vision for growth. Plans for a new facility include a larger underground space featuring an expanded exhibit hall, secure archives and new administrative offices. 

“These additions will not only allow the museum to better preserve and protect the region’s history, but also create space to share more stories, host engaging educational programs for all ages and welcome a growing community of visitors,” a news release said. 

Running’s matching gift comes as the museum prepares for the second phase of its expansion. 

“With the community’s support, the Museum of North Idaho can continue to serve as a gathering place where history is preserved, explored and celebrated for generations to come,” a news release said. 

Donations to the building fund can be made online at museumni.org, by mail at P.O. Box 812 or in person at the museum at 720 E. Young Ave., Coeur d’Alene.