Play-It-Forward fundraiser raises $18K for Northwoods Children’s Museum

The Northwoods Children’s Museum (NCM) held its first in-person fundraiser in five years on June 9 at Riverstone Brewing Company in Eagle River.

The Play-It-Forward Fundraiser welcomed 65 guests for an evening of delicious food, a cash bar, basket raffles, a 50/50 raffle, silent auction items, and AmFund vacation auctions.

Organizers said the intimate event raised critical funds for much-needed building upgrades, bringing in just over $18,000 toward the museum’s $600,000 goal.

Planned improvements include new siding, windows, and doors to make the building water-tight, along with a 24/7 public-access vestibule for the food and hygiene pantry.
A future phase — dependent on additional fundraising — includes finishing the remaining 40% of the building’s unused space to add new exhibits, a larger community room, and office space with exhibit storage. These upgrades will enhance the museum’s ability to serve families and expand programming in the Northwoods.

The NCM extended thanks to everyone who attended and donated.

Popular auction items included high-end camping gear from Hiker Box, an e-bike from Laketime Management, vehicle detailing from Premier Auto and Kenny’s Elite Auto Detailing, and gift certificates from Boat Sport, Bear Trap, Chef Rene’s, and more.

To learn more about the museum or contribute to the building campaign, contact Danielle Larsen at 715-479-4623 or director@northwoodschildrensmuseum.com.