Discovery Depot Children's Museum

Where We've Been and Where We're Going...

Our journey thus far has included:

February 2005
Formed committee of dedicated community members to develop a children’s museum

March 2005
Selected Discovery Depot name to honor Portage’s transportation history and heritage

Created mission, vision, goals and company objectives

April 2005
Attended Association of Children’s Museums (ACM) convention

June 2005
Attended grant workshop

July 2005
Launched www.ddkids.org web site

Unveiled new logo

Became members of ACM

August 2005
Premiered the Discovery Depot newsletter, ddkids tracks

Participated in Yesterfest celebration

Created PowerPoint & architectural concept to present to business leaders and community members

Began pursuing 501(c)(3) status

September 2005
Presented the Discovery Depot concept and plan at a community meeting

Completed survey for public input

October 2005
Mobile Museum debuts at PumpkinFest

November 2005
Participated in the Holiday Parade

Mobile Museum appeared in the lobby for the Free Canned Goods Movies at Portage Theatres

Filed Articles of Incorporation and created Board of Directors rules and regulations

December 2005
Participated at Cookie Walk, Living Windows, Edgewater tree display

Greater Portage Youth Education Foundation began to accept donations on our behalf

First donations accepted and deposited in newly opened bank account

January 2006
Mobile Museum at the Healthy Living Fair

Board of Directors held planning retreat

February 2006
Assisted at Portage's Annual Alumni Basketball Tournament

March 2006
Assisted Alumni Curling Bonspiel by providing baked goods for them to sell

April 2006
Mobile Museum and Chalk Drawing contest held at Festival of Flowers

May 2006
Business Plan Draft created

Summer 2006
Participated in Canal Days by offering children's activites at the Surgeon's Quarters

Board of Directors holds detailed planning retreat

The next stage of our journey includes:
Complete Business Plan

Complete 501(c)3 application

Begin capital campaign

Select location

Create exhibit and programming master plan

Hire exhibit architect and contractor

Hire museum staff

Begin membership drive

Grand Opening!