THE DALLES — Wonderwork’s Children’s Musuem reopened on March 27 to a “pretty good” response, with the floor rapidly becoming covered in scattered toys and playing children. The nonprofit hopes to build a volunteer force that will help the museum remain open and implement more programs for Gorge children, said Museum Manager Krysta Youngquist.
“We’re working towards getting a stronger volunteer force ... so we can staff the opening hours with volunteers ... so we don’t have to close again,” Youngquist said, making a very rough estimate that at least 20 volunteers would be needed to run the museum. Along with hoped-for donations, that would reduce the nonprofit’s operating costs.
Currently Wonderworks has no active volunteers, although they have received inquiries. Potential volunteers can email info@wonderworksgorge.com, and need no qualifications, although they must pass a background check.
Volunteers are needed to staff the front desk, check in arrivals, make sure “everybody’s being safe,” set out craft activities, and clean up when days are done. “A lot of our families are wonderful and they will help clean up when they leave,” Youngquist noted.
The board hopes to implement lots of "fun programs," but that requires money, Youngquist added. “We have endless dreams and ideas for sure, but it takes funding ... The constant appeal to the community is to support us however they can.” Grant applications are also planned by the board.
While exhibits have not changed, the museum now rents out a renovated, versatile event and community space, which can host parties, community and business events. “Book your birthday parties with us, people!” suggested Youngquist.
The museum is still working out future plans. “We have a really great board right now that’s working really hard to figure all of this out,” said Youngquist, who works at the museum out of a stated love of children and fellowship with other parents. “There’s nothing like this in the entire Gorge ... our role in supporting young families in the Gorge is really critical,” providing space for play, for families to get out of the house and have good experiences, and for parents to connect with each other.
“I do it because I know how badly I need a space like this,” Youngquist said.
Wonderworks is located at 206 Madison St. For those who were members in 2023, Wonderworks will honor the time remaining on those memberships at the time of closure. Otherwise, admission is $5 per person, or $120 for a year’s admission.
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