The Valley Relics Museum, a cultural institution preserving San Fernando Valley history for nearly three decades, is facing an existential threat due to a severe budget crisis. The museum has launched an urgent GoFundMe campaign with a $75,000 goal to combat crushing overhead costs, post-pandemic deficits, and looming debt that threaten its closure.
Founder Tommy Gelinas expressed the urgency of the situation, detailing a $70,000 balloon payment due in December. The museum, housed in two large hangars at Van Nuys Airport, boasts a collection of over 30,000 vintage artifacts, including neon signs, Hollywood memorabilia, classic cars, and forgotten restaurant relics. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the museum's finances, freezing public ticket sales and canceling lucrative private events that previously funded its operations. Despite efforts to rebound, rising costs for hangar leases, utilities, insurance, and maintenance have pushed the nonprofit organization to the brink.
"We’ve worked hard – blood, sweat and tears on this passion project," Gelinas told CBS Los Angeles. The museum's collection features unique items such as Eve Plumb's "The Brady Bunch" bedroom door, a talking Jack in the Box head, the neon sign from the former Palomino Club, and Jeff Spicoli's Volkswagen van from "Fast Times at Ridgemont High."
The GoFundMe campaign aims not only to keep the museum afloat but also to revive public events, educational school tours, and community workshops. Funds will also be used to restore artifacts currently in storage. Future exhibits are planned to highlight the Valley's car culture, architecture, and film industry connections. The Studio City Neighborhood Council has supported the museum's plea, urging residents to contribute to prevent the loss of another local institution.
As of the report, the GoFundMe campaign has raised over $42,000. The museum's mission is to "preserve these relics and showcase the history, culture, and spirit of the San Fernando Valley."