Children’s Museum Secures 0,000 Donation

Compeer Financial Invests 0,000 in Children’s Discovery Museum Exhibit to Promote Agricultural Literacy

Normal, Illinois — Compeer Financial, through its Fund for Rural America, has pledged a substantial donation of 0,000 to the Children’s Discovery Museum in Normal. This funding is designated for the development of a new exhibit titled “From the Farm to a Healthy Me.” The initiative aims to provide an enriching educational experience centered around agriculture, nutrition, and wellness for children and families.

The upcoming exhibit is set to enhance the museum’s established focus on agriculture and food systems, which has long resonated with visitors. Since its inception in 2006, the museum’s previous exhibit, “AgMazing,” has engaged over two million guests by showcasing the symbiotic relationship between farming practices and everyday life. The new exhibit promises to build on this legacy by adopting an innovative and immersive approach to education, which illuminates the journey food undertakes from farm fields to the dining table.

Karen Schieler, manager of Compeer Financial’s Fund for Rural America, emphasized the organization’s commitment to enhancing rural communities through educational initiatives. “This investment not only illustrates our dedication to agriculture but also underscores the importance of food security, healthy living, and sustainable farming practices,” Schieler remarked.

Beth Whisman, executive director of the Cultural Arts & Children’s Discovery Museum, echoed this sentiment, noting that innovation will be a cornerstone of the exhibit’s design. “The creative integration of interactive elements will transform how we narrate the story of agriculture,” Whisman stated, hinting at a dynamic, hands-on learning environment.

Visitors to the exhibit can anticipate engaging activities that allow them to experience various aspects of the agricultural process, such as crop cultivation, livestock care, food processing, and understanding the nutritional value of fresh produce. By participating in role-playing scenarios as farmers, grocers, and chefs, children will gain valuable insights into the multifaceted role agriculture plays in both personal and communal health.

Jase Wagner, president and CEO of Compeer Financial, highlighted the significance of connecting consumers with their food sources, stating, “This exhibit aims to foster greater awareness and appreciation for the agricultural sector.” He added that Compeer is proud to support initiatives that benefit the Bloomington-Normal community, affirming their ongoing commitment to local investment.

Compeer Financial’s donation reflects its broader objective of empowering rural communities through educational programming and long-term investments. The Fund for Rural America is dedicated to supporting initiatives that enhance agricultural literacy, innovation, and resilience within the Midwest.

Whisman concluded, “This generous contribution from Compeer Financial enables us to bring to light vital topics surrounding agriculture in a compelling and meaningful manner. We are thankful for their ongoing partnership and commitment to our mission, which aims to inspire families to adopt healthier dietary choices while appreciating the labor-intensive work that farmers undertake.”

In a time when awareness of food sources and healthy living is increasingly important, this initiative promises to educate and engage future generations, preparing them for informed choices that impact both their lives and their communities.