Introducing the Ottawa Exploreum Children’s Museum Fiscal Sponsorship Agreement
This initiative presents a unique opportunity to partner with several esteemed local organizations and leaders:
- Ottawa Visitor’s Center: Led by Operations Tourism Manager, Donna Reynolds, the Center is dedicated to promoting tourism and enriching the cultural landscape of Ottawa.
- Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce: Under the guidance of executive director Jay McCracken, the Chamber supports local businesses and community development.
- Ottawa Special Events: Chaired by Wayne Eichelkraut, this organization enhances community engagement through various events and activities.
The project has garnered robust support from the City of Ottawa, with Mayor Robb Hasty endorsing this vision. Local business owner and Emploreum Board Member, Stephanie Stacy will help support and will serve as the executor of the fund in collaboration with the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation (SRCCF), ensuring that the museum project is managed effectively and sustainably.
Photos taken by Donna Reynolds at the Oak Lawn Children’s Museum.
“This project has been a personal dream years in the making. The Ottawa Exploreum holds immense potential to enrich our community, offering wondrous activities and events that will enhance our children’s lives. This comprehensive museum would introduce our children to unique experiences they might otherwise miss, from dinosaur digs and global habitats to engaging farm-to-table activities. The Exploreum promises to be a dynamic event venue and a proud addition to our Ottawa community.” passionately explained Donna Reynolds of the Ottawa Illinois Visitors Center.
The Exploreum is currently in search of a suitable home, ideally located in the downtown area of Ottawa. This central location will make the museum accessible to all families in the community and beyond, contributing to the revitalization of our downtown.
By contributing to the fund for the Ottawa Exploreum Children’s Museum Fiscal Sponsorship Agreement, you will be playing a crucial role in bringing this visionary project to life. The purpose of the SRCCF fund is to bridge the gap between the initial establishment of the Museum and its readiness and ability to secure a 501(c)3 designation by the IRS.
Your support will help create a space where children can learn, play, and explore in an environment designed to inspire and educate. Join us in making this dream a reality and enriching the lives of countless families in our community.
For additional information email the Ottawa Exploreum at directors@ottawaexploreum.com
Announcing our first-ever Sparkle-Spectacular!
We are thrilled to announce our first-ever Sparkle Spectacular — a festive holiday fundraiser to benefit the future Exploreum Children’s Museum in Ottawa, Illinois. This magical event will feature a silent auction of beautifully decorated holiday trees, all displayed at Jeremiah Joe Coffee, 807 LaSalle Street, from November 7 through November 21.
The community is invited to stroll through the display, enjoy the seasonal atmosphere, and bid on their favorite trees online. The online auction will go live at 6:00 PM on November 7 and close on November 21 at 4:00 PM, when winners will be announced.
In addition to viewing the trees in person, all tree entries will also be featured on our Facebook page: Exploreum Children’s Museum, allowing even more people to enjoy and participate in the fun!
We would love for you to be a part of this special event as a sponsor or donor. Your support will help us bring educational play, imagination, and discovery to children and families throughout our region. Sponsorships include a range of benefits such as business recognition, social media promotion, and the opportunity to sponsor or decorate a themed tree.
We hope you’ll consider supporting the Exploreum through this heartwarming holiday celebration. Your generosity will help us build something truly special — a place where children can learn, explore, and grow right here in the Middle of Everywhere.
