Beyond Play: How Every Visit Helps The Children’s Museum of Wilmington Grow

Every laugh, every “aha!” moment, and every splash of creativity inside the museum happens because of community support. As a nonprofit museum in Wilmington, NC, CMoW depends on admissions, memberships, and donations to keep its exhibits running, programs expanding, and educational impact growing.

This season, we’re celebrating the joy of giving and showing how your support helps The Children’s Museum of Wilmington thrive year after year.

A Museum With a Mission

The Children’s Museum of Wilmington isn’t just a place to play, it’s a place to grow.

From toddlers exploring textures to elementary students experimenting with science, every hands-on exhibit is designed to build social, emotional, and cognitive skills. CMoW is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, meaning that admissions and program fees cover only a portion of operating costs. The rest comes from donors, members, and community partners who believe in the power of play-based learning.

Learn more about the mission behind The Children’s Museum of Wilmington and how we inspire play with purpose for every child.

How Your Visit Makes an Impact

When you bring your family to CMoW, you’re doing more than planning a fun day—you’re supporting local education.

Every ticket purchased helps:

• Maintain and refresh interactive exhibits

• Fund materials for crafts, STEM experiments, and sensory play

• Support staff educators who guide and inspire children daily

  
  

Each visit is an investment in Wilmington’s creative community and the next generation of learners. Plan your next visit and see how hands-on play supports our mission year-round.

For perspective on community impact, read Why Museums Matter from the American Alliance of Museums or explore things to do in Wilmington that make a local impact.

Programs That Inspire and Educate

CMoW’s daily programs bring learning to life through art, science, and discovery. Whether kids are painting, building, or experimenting, they’re strengthening imagination and collaboration in an inclusive environment.

These programs are powered by grants and donations from individuals and organizations that believe learning should be accessible to all children.

We also offer special events each month. Discover which special events your family can experience this week and join in on the fun.

Why Donations Matter (and Where They Go)

Every donation—large or small—helps CMoW continue its mission of learning through play. Contributions directly support the spaces, staff, and supplies that make each visit meaningful.

Your generosity helps us:

• Refresh and repair exhibits to keep them safe and engaging

• Fund new educational initiatives and special events

• Provide scholarships for underserved families to attend programs

• Support wages for staff who create a warm, welcoming environment

  
  

CMoW relies on annual giving to sustain operations and expand outreach. Your donation keeps creativity alive for Wilmington families year-round.

Make a personal donation or explore corporate sponsorships and giving opportunities to help us continue inspiring curiosity.

Membership: The Gift That Gives All Year

A membership offers unlimited access to learning and fun while providing steady support for the museum’s mission.

Memberships help:

• Fund exhibit maintenance and new installations

• Support special events and community outreach

• Provide families with year-round learning experiences

  
  

With many options for families, memberships are a meaningful way to give back and enjoy the museum all year long.

Explore CMoW’s membership options and benefits for families of every size.

Giving Season: Be Part of the Story

As the holidays approach, your gift can make a lasting impact.

Whether through a one-time donation, a corporate sponsorship, or a recurring contribution, your support helps shape the future of The Children’s Museum of Wilmington. Every dollar helps us expand programming, improve exhibits, and ensure that learning through play remains accessible for all.

Join us for upcoming fundraisers and seasonal celebrations that bring joy and purpose together. See how your contribution supports the museum and the community events.

We also recommend a review of Charity Navigator’s guide to supporting nonprofits you trust.

Your Support Builds Brighter Futures

Every ticket, membership, and donation helps CMoW grow and keeps creativity, learning, and laughter alive for thousands of children each year.

By supporting the museum, you’re investing in Wilmington’s future dreamers, builders, and explorers.

Help us keep learning alive for all children. Donate or become a member today and see how your generosity turns play into progress.