Nothing pleased me more than this recent Chronicle headline: “United Learning Center Construction set in Centralia.” Why? Because I am asked weekly, “when will the museum reopen?” Now, I have an answer.
It is so perfectly appropriate that Discover! Children’s Museum is included in the “United Learning Center.” This effort is truly about being “united” and focusing on “learning,” which is the mission of all involved.
Allow me to focus a bit on history. Thinking back to 2009 when two moms had that seed of an idea — wouldn’t it be great to have a children’s museum in our community? First nurtured by the Chehalis Community Renaissance Team, supported by many donors, the formation of an advisory group, becoming registered as a nonprofit, along with the establishment of a board of directors, Discover! Children’s Museum idea germinated, grew and brought us to where we are today. And oh, what a journey it’s been.
Many will remember the museum’s pilot that opened in an unused retail space on Louisiana Avenue. Originally planned for a six-month trial, success exceeded all expectations so that it remained open for an additional three months. Looking back at the statistics, it’s no wonder. Discover! Children’s Museum saw visitors from 58 ZIP codes and welcomed over 15,000 guests entering to enjoy the interactive exhibits.
Discover! Children’s Museum also extended invitations to the community groups who graciously came and shared their programs. Weyerhaeuser brought forest information and seedlings. The Lewis County Dental Coalition provided free dental screenings. Twin Star Credit Union introduced Dollar Dog Days and encouraged savings plans. Chehalis Fire District 6 parked their fire and ladder trucks outside. The Centralia Ballet Company inspired us with a magical dance performance. Lewis County Crime Stoppers offered child ID fingerprinting. No one can forget FIN — that gigantic interactive salmon!
Yet, Discover! didn’t stay put. Off we went, out into the community. We showed up at Winlock Egg Days, Napavine Funfest, Mossyrock Blueberry Festival, Chehalis Farmers Market, Music in the Park and the Southwest Washington Fair. If there were families and fun, Discover! was usually there.
But pilots need to end, thus Discover! closed its doors. Though not visible, planning continued in earnest for a permanent future, which brings us now to these current headlines. That seed has broken ground, the future is visible and excitement is all around.
A huge thank you goes out to those many faithful supporters and donors who also believed in and held close our hope and vision over the years. Thank you to Sen. Patty Murray, who helped secure our inclusion in a federal budget package. Thank you also to state Rep. Peter Abbarno, who secured additional funding at the state level.
Feel free to visit, learn and watch us grow on our Facebook page as well as on our website, www.discovermuseum.org.
Marilynn Chintella
Discover! Children’s Museum board member
