Mission
The Grand Rapids Children's Museum celebrates childhood and the joy of learning by providing an interactive, hands-on environment that inspires learning and encourages self directed exploration.
Statement of Values
- We recognize and respect all children, their families and the communities they represent.
- Our programs and services are designed to meet the variety of ways that children learn and to enhance their self-esteem.
- Our environment encourages cooperation, problem solving and life-long learning.
- We utilize play as a tool for learning and strengthening relationships.
GRCM History
The founders of the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, Georgia Woodrick Gietzen, Alyce Greeson, Carla Morris, and Aleicia Woodrick, were inspired by their children and grandchildren. They saw a need for regular, creative, hands-on play. Founded on the beliefs that play is a child’s work and children learn best when they direct their own learning, these women set about to create a place with a sole focus on young children. The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, a “Museum Without Walls,” debuted in August 1993 at Woodland Shopping Center. In the winter of 1994, the Museum found a home at 11 Sheldon Avenue. The building was selected and donated by Bob and Aleicia Woodrick and Jim and Shirley Balk. After much renovation, the Museum opened its doors in July 1997.
Over the past thirteen years, the GRCM has served more than 2,000,000 children and their grown-ups from all over the world. The Museum has an annual operating budget that has grown to more than $1 million. In 2006, the Grand Rapids Children's Museum celebrated record-breaking attendance, serving more than 180,000 visitors. The GRCM has been a recipient of the Art Serve Michigan’s Governor’s Award and recently was recognized by the Association of Children’s Museum as one of the most innovative Children’s Museums in the country.
GRCM News
PRESS KIT
MEDIA FACT SHEET
Please see below for current event and exhibit news. Be sure to check out our
"What's Happening?" page for details surrounding Museum events and activities.
For more information, contact Jack Woller at jwoller@grcm.org
or (616) 235-4726 ext. 103.
GRCM Press Releases:
Tooth Time 2009
Blue Man Group: Making Waves
New Role for GRCM Executive Director
Bob the Builder-Project: Build It
Help Habitat for Humanity During Bob the Builder-Project:Build It
GRCM Partners with Helen DeVos Children's Hospital for Bob the Builder Outreach
GRCM Announces New Executive Director
GRCM Offers FREE Admission for Teresa L. Thome
GRCM Brings Bob the Builder's Can-Do Attitude into Classrooms
Kids at Heart 2008
Books Alive! Where Kids Get into Books!
Spring Break with Kenny Ahern
Build and Play Days