We’re thrilled to announce a major step forward in our mission to bring hands-on learning directly to the children and families of our region: design is officially underway for the Sarasota Children’s Museum Mobile Unit!
Thanks to a $15,000 Small and Mighty (SAM) grant from the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation, along with generous contributions from Shelly Dorfman and Soar in Four, we’ve been able to launch the crucial design phase of this exciting project. These early investments are helping us transform our vision into reality.
Why a Mobile Museum?
Not all children have easy access to educational resources or inspiring museum experiences. That’s why our mobile museum is designed to meet families where they are—bringing dynamic, play-based STEAM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) directly to schools, neighborhoods, and community spaces across Sarasota and Manatee counties.
This traveling museum will be more than just a vehicle—it will be a spark of imagination and discovery, reaching kids of all backgrounds and abilities with opportunities to explore, experiment, and grow.
Meet Our Design Partners
We’re honored to be working with the talented team at Creative Arts, Inc., who will lead the way in shaping the museum’s layout, interactivity, and overall experience. Their expertise in educational exhibit design ensures that this mobile unit will be engaging, flexible, and inspiring for young learners.
From interactive stations to creative play areas, the design will prioritize inclusivity, creativity, and fun, making it a perfect extension of our mission to empower children through meaningful exploration.
A Journey Just Beginning
This design phase is a pivotal moment—but it’s just the beginning. As we continue developing this innovative program, we remain focused on building a mobile space that supports:
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Curiosity – through hands-on activities and open-ended play
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Accessibility – by traveling to underserved areas and removing barriers
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Family Engagement – encouraging collaborative learning and shared joy
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Community Partnerships – with schools, nonprofits, and local leaders
We believe deeply in the power of early exposure to STEAM concepts—and with the mobile museum, we’re one step closer to reaching every child who dreams big.
Thank You to Our Champions
To the Selby Foundation, Shelly Dorfman, and Soar in Four: thank you for being early champions of this important initiative. Your support is helping us lay the foundation—literally and figuratively—for a brighter, more curious future.
There’s much more to come—and we can’t wait to bring you along for the ride.
Stay tuned for design sneak peeks, community updates, and ways to get involved. Let’s build this dream together!
