Accessibility through Open Arms

Making it possible for every child, family and school to enjoy the museum experience regardless of any financial, language or special needs barrier.

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Stepping Stones created Open Arms to ensure that the museum's educational exhibits and programs are accessible to all audiences. We partner with numerous non-profit organizations and schools to reach families who would not visit the museum without encouragement, financial assistance or both.

Are you or do you know of a family or school who may be interested in applying for Open Arms? Call 203 899 0606 ext. 247 for more information.

Click Here to learn about supporting the more than 25,000 children and families benefiting from Open Arms each year.

Learn more by downloading the Open Arms brochure.

 

Open Arms initiatives address four key areas:

Cost/Fee for participants
We partner with community-based organizations and families to provide free or reduced-fee access to museum offerings for children, families or groups who wish to visit the museum but cannot afford to pay.

Culture/Ethnicity
We provide an organizational structure and educational offerings that are representative of the cultural diversity in the community we serve.

Language
We develop and/or customize educational exhibits and programs that reflect the diversity of languages spoken throughout the region.

Special Needs
We offer educational offerings and services that support a variety of learning styles, interests and developmental abilities.

Yearly Impact

  • Over 25,000 children and their families benefit from Open Arms.
  • 20% of all family programs and school programs are set aside for Open Arms.
  • Over 3,600 visitors enjoy Get Into It! FREE Evenings.
  • Angel Sponsorships provide 40 family memberships to families in need.
  • Financial assistance is provided to over 3,500 school children and families.
  • The community Admission Pass Program reaches 2,000 visitors through 70 community partnerships.

 

Ways to Give

Contact Fritz Jellinghaus, Director of Leadership Giving, 203 899 0606 ext. 246 to get involved today.

How to Apply

For more information or to apply for assistance call 203 899 0606 ext. 247