Children's Museum of Tacoma

The Children's Museum of Tacoma will develop and pilot programs and fabricate exhibits for a satellite location on Joint Base Lewis-McChord. "Play is on Base" will strengthen the museum's position as a community anchor by increasing its capacity to engage and serve the region's military families. The museum and the military base will collaborate closely, engage additional community organizations, and work with the intended audience to create exhibits and programs tailored to meet the unique needs of military families, especially those whose children have special needs. Project activities also will include professional development for staff and volunteers to build the knowledge and strategies needed to work with the target audiences. An external evaluator will develop a comprehensive evaluation plan and related tools to ensure exhibits and programs are meeting organizational goals as well as audience needs. The project will contribute to the creation of a model for partnerships between children's museums and military installations.