Creating Opportunities - Incorporated as a 501(c)(3) in 2006, the Ohio Valley Museum of Discovery is a hands-on discovery museum founded with a mission to inspire confidence in people of all ages to explore and discover the world. Southeastern Ohio is a rural region that is rich in natural beauty, strong cultural traditions, and supportive community connections. Yet, children in southeastern Ohio experience the highest rates of child poverty in the state, 25% are food insecure, and the region’s children are disproportionately impacted by the opioid epidemic. Addressing these challenges starts with recognizing the importance of providing wide-ranging and impactful educational opportunities that improve health and well-being for the whole child - experiences like those found in museums. Unfortunately, for children and families in southeastern Ohio, the nearest discovery museum is located 90 minutes away in Columbus.

Now, southeastern Ohio has the opportunity to provide something similar for its children and families. OVMoD has a new permanent home at 67 Columbus Rd. in Athens. Capital campaign dollars support the renovation of this space and the installation of new and innovative exhibits.

The building for OVMoD’s permanent home will be transformed into a dynamic learning environment by implementing the first phase in a long-range museum plan developed in collaboration with RVC Architects and Hilferty & Associates, a nationally renowned exhibit design firm. Plans include building renovations that will create roughly 2,000 square feet of usable space. Renovations include asbestos removal, accessible restrooms, lighting and flooring, as well as ample space for exhibits and programming in the main gallery.

Sustainability & Regional Impact - Based on a detailed market analysis and 15 years of experience delivering engaging hands-on learning experiences throughout the region, OVMoD has developed a focused business plan and pro forma budget to ensure the museum’s long-term sustainability. This project will energize the Columbus Road pathway into Athens, creating a vibrant and visible stop for school groups, tourists and community members. We estimate a 5-year direct economic impact exceeding $1 million in new jobs created, tourism dollars and local business contracts due to the creation of this permanent home for the Ohio Valley Museum of Discovery.

OVMoD’s permanent home will fill a learning void, creating a transformative hub for discovery- based, hands-on learning opportunities that will improve access to and quality of childhood experiences in southeastern Ohio.

Project Contact Information

Jen Parsons, Executive Director 740.908.6446 [email protected]

67 Columbus Rd. Athens, OH 45701 www.ovmod.org