Dream Big

A Capital Campaign to Transform the Future of Play & Learning

Dream Big Campaign Logo at the Children's Museum of Richmond, featuring a dinosaur and caterpillar construction worker.

Inspiring for Generations

Since 1981, the Children’s Museum of Richmond (CMoR) has been a cornerstone of early childhood education, providing interactive programs, exhibits, and services that integrate development, parent education, and literacy. As a vital first cultural experience for many children, CMoR complements educational efforts from schools, childcare centers, and homes, fostering a love of learning in millions of children and their families across Virginia.

Dream Big Capital Campaign Timeline: From 1981 to 2027, showcasing growth and children's development over the years.

The Time for Transformation is Now

The Children’s Museum of Richmond’s Broad Street location has not undergone a sizeable renovation since its opening in 2000. After 25 years, the wear and tear on CMoR’s beloved exhibits is significant. The exhibits that have delighted and educated children for decades are now in need of an update for the Museum to maintain effectiveness and appeal.

Dream Big Capital Campaign: CMOR children's museum rendering of imaginative indoor playground with flowers and play structures.

By investing in the renovation and transformation of CMoR, we are not just improving a museum but also contributing to the future success of the Central Virginia community.

1. Expand educational impact and learning interactions

New and improved exhibits will provide dynamic and educational opportunities, promoting early learning, development of essential life skills, literacy, caregiver engagement, and diverse modalities of play.

2. Enhance accessibility and promote learning opportunities for all

Provide children from every background with the tools and experiences they need for school readiness and beyond.

3. Foster community engagement

Updated facilities and exhibits will support increased visitation and community engagement, making CMoR a central hub for family learning and play in Richmond.

Dream Big Capital Campaign: Children's museum rendering with nature themed play area and interactive exhibits.

The Children’s Museum of Richmond is poised to enter a new era of impact and innovation. Children’s hearts will leap and their imaginations will run wild in new and expanded exhibits. Your support will allow more children to grow with curiosity into lifelong learners through our dynamic new environment.

Transforming Dreams Into Reality:

Our Capital Campaign Vision

To ignite a lifelong love for learning in children through the transformative power of play.

CMoR fosters an environment where young learners and their caregivers are inspired to be curious, resourceful, and goal-directed explorers of their expanding world.

Fundraising Goal

Dream Big Capital Campaign Goal: $10M target for downtown exhibit transformation and building renovations. Fundraising progress.

Timeline

Throughout these phases, CMoR will remain either partially or fully open, providing continuous access to educational and engaging experiences for all visitors.

The first phase of exhibit renovations is poised to open in June 2026. The second half of exhibit renovations will begin in early 2027 and conclude in June 2027, culminating in a completely renovated Downtown exhibit experience.

Dream Big timeline: Exhibit plans (2024-25), facility updates (2026), final CMOR installations (2027). Capital campaign progress.

Watch the Video Below for Renderings from Phase I of Renovations

How Can I Support Dream Big?

You can help bring the next generation of play to life! Gifts of all sizes make an impact and help us create a museum that welcomes every child and caregiver. To learn more or discuss giving opportunities, please contact: Sarah Newman, Director of Development & Marketing, snewman@cmorva.org.