Twenty-five years ago, educators and parents gathered around a kitchen table discussing the lack of activities and "out of the classroom" learning experiences for the young children of the Coachella Valley. That meeting created the beginnings of the Children's Discovery Museum. Setting up shop in a rented Dentist's office and later the Mall, the Museum was an instant success and enabled volunteers and fundraisers to dream even bigger. Over the years, the Museum was given its current 6 ½ acre campus by the Ambassador and Mrs. Annenberg. In addition, donations with which to develop indoor and outdoor exploration areas, architecturally recognized buildings, and an array of exhibitry like no other were given generously.

Having a clear vision, goals, and objectives helped to make this happen. With those in place, volunteers, staff and community leaders drove support for the children and their beloved Museum.

The Museum has currently embarked upon an update of its strategic plan and is, once again, laying plans for the future. Inspired by the history of the Museum; the ability of the Museum to create excitement and glee in the visiting children and their families and the impact it has every day upon the communities it serves; helps to lay the groundwork for an increased sensitivity to meet the needs of its visitors and members.

The strategic plan for the next twenty-five years is a work in progress and the commitment to grow with our children is a tremendous responsibility. It would not be possible without the fore-site and dedication of Board, Staff, Volunteers, and Supporters who make everything possible. We owe it to our founders and to the youth who benefit from us to make the best plan for the next twenty-five years. I count on you to help us in this essential endeavor. Plan with us, support us, and show our next generation that you care. You can make a difference!

My family moved to Palm Desert in the late 60's at a time when there wasn't a lot of things for kids to do. Back then, the valley was more of a retirement community, and the average age of the residents was a lot higher than it is today.

I've seen a lot of changes through the years and I am happy for the current generation of youths who have been able to grow up with a resource like The Children's Discovery Museum, which provides our community with a facility that allows them to learn, have fun and create lasting memories.

Now, as we celebrate our 25th anniversary, our museum experience continues to get even better! We recently finished a major construction project on our campus, which was made possible due to the generous support and contributions by Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, and several private individuals and foundations through our multi-year capital campaign program.

We have enclosed our entire campus and added a new multi-purpose building, which accommodates our programs and has allowed us space to add 11 new and exciting hands-on exhibits. There is a lot more parking and beautifully landscaped grounds for visitors to enjoy. If you haven't been by already, you are invited to stop in and see for yourself.

We also have an opportunity for naming rights for some of the new additions and exhibits. For those interested in making a contribution or would like to recognize a relative or loved one, please contact either myself or our Executive Director Lee Vanderbeck. We look forward to seeing you soon at the new and improved Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert!

Scott R. Wilson
Founding Partner
Wilson Johnson Commercial Real Estate, Inc.
President of the Board