model train set on track

Make a Financial Contribution to Support TCA

As a nonprofit organization, the Train Collectors Association relies on the generosity of our members and friends to sustain us. We aim to keep membership dues and other service fees low within the organization, but this also means that our services—including the preservation of our Museum and Library collections—exceed our revenue.

Would you like to help support and spread the love of toy trains? Monetary gifts in any amount support our mission and work. More information is available on this page. Or, you can jump directly into making your secure donation right here through the TCA website!


Endowment Support

Managed by external financial professionals, the TCA Endowment Fund is a critical investment that allows our Finance Committee to use interest income as a funding source. Your contribution to the Fund adds to the principal, which is never touched. Donations to the Endowment Fund are truly used to fund the future!

Do you have questions about the Endowment Fund? Please call the TCA National Business Office to discuss details at (717) 687-8623.

Gifts in Support of Our Educational Mission

Part of TCA’s educational mission is carried out through the National Toy Train Museumand the National Toy Train Library. Both of these can benefit from your support to continue the wonderful legacy of toy trains to be both maintained and interpreted for future generations. Direct your gift to either organization now.

Major Gifts – Become a Patron or Benefactor

As a top-tier supporter of TCA and/or The National Toy Train Museum, you are entitled to special donor recognition opportunities in addition to providing our organization with the highest level of support.

TCA Patrons

Simply give a one-time gift of $1,000, and your name will be added to our special Patrons plaque in the lobby of the National Toy Train Museum and TCA Headquarters in Strasburg, PA. If you are a TCA Member over age 60, a gift at this level may also qualify you for our Heritage Membership program.

Sustaining Contributions

Would you like to set up a recurring gift to TCA? Many of our Patrons and Benefactors enjoy the ease of regular giving to our organization, knowing that they are making a lasting difference. Please contact us for details.

Benefactors of The Museum

A minimum gift to the National Toy Train Museum of $500 will be directed toward supporting the costs of operating and maintaining the Museum. Donors are listed on a special plaque in the lobby. To discuss your donation and the wording on the plaque, please call the National Business Office at (717) 687-8623. 

TCA Benefactors

Make a one-time gift of at least $500, and your name will be added to our special Benefactors plaque in the lobby of the National Toy Train Museum and TCA Headquarters in Strasburg, PA.

Planned Giving

Supporting TCA by naming the organization as a beneficiary of your life insurance policy (new or existing) is a unique way to plan a future gift and ensure a legacy. Additionally, you may also remember TCA in your will as part of your estate planning goals.

Please visit our Planned Giving information page for more details, or contact the National Business Office to begin the conversation about generous legacy gifts such as these.

TCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. All donations are tax-deductible under federal and Pennsylvania law. Have questions? Please contact us at (717) 687-8976.

Looking for a Fun Way to Leave Your Mark and Support TCA? Buy a Brick!

Want to be an enduring part of toy train history? For just $100, you can customize a brick with your name or another short dedication message to be added to the exterior landscape outside the National Toy Train Museum. Get the details and order yours today!