EPIC Discovery Center will develop the old armory building on Old Potash Highway within Ryder Park due to its centralized location and accessibility to the community. This location was deemed especially important to the original steering committee that scouted potential locations. The steering committee, based on responses from a feasibility study, determined this location is centrally located, easily accessible, and utilizes an existing building in the community.
Future EPIC Discovery Center main entrance.
EPIC Discovery Center will be a place for families, children, and youth of all ages to learn and experience STEAM-based programming. Most people think children’s museums are places for young children, but the GICM envisions a place for ages 0-18 and beyond. It will truly be a place where there is something for everyone.
The museum space will feature permanent exhibits that are crowd pleasers for new and returning visitors. These exhibits will educate people through the core mission of offering STEAM-based programming.
EPIC Discovery Center will also feature touring exhibits that will be displayed on a non-permanent basis. These types of activities will not only ensure recurring visits from families but also provide fun, new learning opportunities for visitors and members.
EPIC Discovery Center will also feature several bonus spaces inside and outside of the museum. The building will feature a cafe that’s available for visitors and serves as a safe place for teens to study and socialize. Outdoor areas may be developed to expand the museum’s space and provide nature-based learning opportunities.
Summer camps will eventually be offered to local children and youth. Several camp options will be available to accommodate different age groups, interests, and schedules.
As the museum grows, so will the programming. After developing the main museum spaces, EPIC Discovery Center will expand its services to include opportunities for local youth during after-school hours. Youth will be able to come to a safe place that also provides learning opportunities that they may not be exposed to in the traditional school setting.
In order for the EPIC Discovery Center to create and sustain a museum for generations to come, the funds must be raised through a Capital Campaign. We hope that the community will support us in making all of this possible, and we ask for your support as we move forward.