 Central Wisconsin Children's MuseumVision for the Year 2020
We are the regional leader in providing family- and play-based early learning opportunities. WE:
- Stimulate curiosity and motivate “learning through play” with an expanding and rotating array of hands-on exhibits and programs that focus on literacy, wellness, diversity, creative expression, and respect for our planet.
- Assist young children ages 0-10 in developing
(1) confidence in their emerging abilities,
(2) a love of learning that will lead them to a bright future and,
(3) the ability to express themselves creatively.
- Support strong families by providing an environment designed to
(1) encourage meaningful family interaction,
(2) engage adults in playful learning experiences that help them understand the development of their young children, and
(3) provide an important social network where parents/caregivers can share with other adults and children can learn to socialize with their peers.
- Collaborate with regional resources which educate and care for children by
(1) contributing to school readiness by supporting children’s physical, social, cognitive and emotional development,
(2) providing opportunities that correlate to learning standards and supplement classroom/learning center/organization experiences, and
(3) embracing character and asset building strategies in our communities.
- Have contributed to the development of adults, our former child visitors, who
(1) use critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity to work toward their personal goals and keep pace with an ever-changing world;
(2) as devoted patrons of cultural organizations, utilize the connection between fun and learning to enhance their fulfillment in life; and
(3) celebrate and embrace diversity of all kinds.
We are an essential part of the cultural fabric of our community, region and field. WE:
- Serve the region from a permanent and visible location of at least 15,000 square feet that meets our needs for future expansion.
- Build and sustain partnerships with other organizations that leverage resources and provide for synergistic effects. We serve as a catalyst for building social capital by engaging with community networks and responding to community needs involving children and families.
- Develop volunteers of all ages and abilities who share their gifts within their communities.
- Provide free and reduced admission for those who cannot afford to visit regularly through a fund supported by the surrounding communities.
- Have 750 member families from throughout the Central Wisconsin region including Portage, Marathon, Wood, and Waupaca counties.
- Value the health and future of all children. Therefore, we strive to utilize environmentally-conscious materials and practices. We help children learn to be stewards of the environment.
- Further the field of children’s museums by following and contributing to best practices and initiatives deemed important by the field.
We contribute significantly to our economy. WE:
- Draw 50,000 visitors per year.
- Enhance the quality of life in Central Wisconsin and help to attract and retain a creative and innovative workforce.
- Are a tourist destination of choice for families traveling across the region. These visitors spend substantial additional funds in our local communities.
- Manage an annual operating budget of $500,000.
- Support the local economy by purchasing goods and services from other local businesses and by providing our staff with wages and benefits appropriate for their experience and expertise.
- Are financially stable. We enjoy a healthy mix of earned income from our admissions, memberships, and programs plus annual donated support from our communities. We have a growing endowment fund to support our operations and ensure the future of the organization.
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