Funded Projects2024 Funded Project: Montrose Children’s Museum

April 7, 2025

Connecting Families of the Western Slope

Based in Montrose, Colorado, the Montrose Children’s Museum is a nonprofit organization, originally established in June of 2024, that offers interactive play in a hands-on learning environment for children and adults alike. By igniting imagination and fueling creativity, the organization hopes to inspire intellect, curiosity, and a love of lifelong learning. Because they are a community-supported nonprofit, the Montrose Children’s Museum emphasizes the importance of community in its work. Each day, they continue to create a space where businesses can introduce their brands and missions through learning initiatives and play, in turn, connecting children and families of the Western Slope.

Learning Through Play

In honor of Chris’ love for the outdoors and people, the Chris Mikesell Foundation assists organizations like the Montrose Children’s Museum that create opportunities for young people to experience nature. Through interactive exhibits, hands-on learning techniques, and community-supported events, the organization is able to provide a fun and educational outlet where children can better learn through play. Some of the ways they continue to benefit the Montrose community include:

Hands-On Learning
The Museum aids young learners by offering interactive exhibits that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
STEM and Arts Education
The organization provides activities that promote science, technology, engineering, math, and the arts, helping to supplement school curriculums.
Community Engagement
The Montrose Children’s Museum hosts special events, workshops, and programs that bring families together and foster a sense of community.
Early Childhood Development
By providing engaging play areas, the Museum helps young children develop cognitive, social, and motor skills.
Accessibility and Inclusion
Accessibility is a top priority, as the Museum is dedicated to offering affordable admission, special programs for underserved families, and sensory-friendly experiences.
Support for Parents and Caregivers
In addition to serving as a learning space, the Museum also acts as a gathering place where parents can network, find resources, and spend quality time with their children in a nurturing environment.

Fostering Curiosity at Every Turn

In 2024, the Chris Mikesell Foundation awarded a $5,000 grant to the Montrose Children’s Museum to help cover operational expenses. As a result, the Museum has been able to remain accessible and engaging for all families, and through the Museums for All program, they have been able to continue offering affordable admission and ensure every child has the opportunity to learn and explore. With the awarded funds, they have also introduced exciting new features, including an interactive projector that combines learning with play, an upgraded outdoor space featuring a sock hockey rink, and enhanced educational signage and hands-on components throughout the museum.

“I first learned about the Foundation through a friend, and the stars aligned with the Museum and what the Foundation supports. We are so grateful for the continued support, as these improvements create a richer, more dynamic experience for our young visitors, fostering curiosity and discovery at every turn.”

— Mallory Shaffer, Montrose Children’s Museum