In the meantime, you’re clearly looking for things to do with the kids! This page on our website is hosting information and activities for things to do at home.The page is constantly evolving so be sure to check back periodically. We hope you enjoy the coloring pages of various CHOM exhibits included in the list of downloadable coloring pages. Let your kids know that we will open again soon and we would love for them to color a picture and share with us on Facebook and bring back later to hang in the museum! Get ready! Get Set!….
During this down time, CHOM is investigating all possible resources for growing and sustaining the museum. If you are able to help, please consider making a donation via our website or through our GoFundMe campaign. Ultimately, our goal is to have CHOM available to as many children and families in our region as possible. Use this opportunity to renew or extend your CHOM membership or share the gift of membership with CHOM with another family.
The CARES Act
To encourage charitable giving among this group of taxpayers and to further support relief efforts, Congress included a provision in the recent CARES Act that creates a new partial above-the-line deduction for cash contributions up to $300 to certain charitable organizations for taxpayers that elect not to itemize deductions. Note that, for the contribution to be deductible, it must be given to a charitable organization described in Internal Revenue Code. Please let us know if you would like additional information on the CARES Act as it relates to charitable giving.
The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Northwest Illinois is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, committed to inspiring all children and families to learn, explore, and create through interactive experiences. Without the support of our members, volunteers and generous donors, we would not be able to continue our commitment to nurturing a love of learning in children. To volunteer, plan a visit, schedule a field trip, or just to learn more about CHOM, visit www.chomnwil.org or email us at .
]]>While we know of no confirmed cases with museum staff, volunteers or guests, the museum is closing out of an abundance of caution, in accordance with local public health recommendations to keep our community safe. The museum will remain closed for a minimum of two weeks with a tentative re-open date of April 2. All events at the museum prior to our reopening will be rescheduled or canceled. For those who were looking forward to our Spring Break activities including our birthday celebration, cookie decorating and yoga, these events are going to be RESCHEDULED. If you have any questions, please contact Sarah Flashing at 630-484-1855 or via email, [email protected].
The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Northwest Illinois is a privately funded nonprofit organization. We rely on both the generosity of our community and revenue from daily visitors to operate. Thank you for your understanding and please consider giving to the museum to help sustain our organization during this challenging time.
Updates and information regarding reopening will be provided to the public via the museum’s website, www.chomnwil.org, email lists (https://chomnwil.com/sign-up-for-emails-2/) and social media accounts including this page. We wish you health and happiness during this challenging time.
]]>Sarah Flashing, Executive Director
(630) 484-1855
[email protected]
Freeport, Illinois – March 11, 2020 –The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Northwest Illinois (CHOM) marks 1 year at Lincoln Mall location throughout Spring Break Week beginning March 23 with a birthday celebration.
During Spring Break week, CHOM will open additional hours and offer special events for children and families of northwest Illinois and surrounding areas. Monday, March 23rd is Free Family Day from 10 am – 12 pm. From 11 – 12:30 that day, CHOM will celebrate its first birthday at Lincoln Mall with a free lunch and birthday cake. Sponsors for this event include Big O’s On the Hollow, Flair Boutique, Forreston State Bank and The Clothes Bin.
Tuesday, March 24th, kids are invited with their parents from 12 – 2 pm for hands-on cookie decorating.
Fee: $1 per cookie (decorations included). While supplies last.
Wednesday, March 25th at 11 am, moms, dads, or other family members or caregivers are invited to bring their child/ren to yoga at CHOM! At the Big & Little with Your Core Being class, you will focus on breathing techniques, physical poses, and mindfulness exercises that encourage kids to be curious about their bodies and their breath and to enjoy that self-discovery. The class helps kids (and their adult companions!) become more flexible, improve and maintain balance and coordination, learn and develop focus and concentration and boost self-esteem, while having fun!
Fee: $10 per family. Space is limited. Must sign up in advance at [email protected] or at CHOM.
CHOM Spring Break Schedule:
Monday, March 23: 10 am – 2 pm
Family Free Day; free lunch & cake: 11 am – 12:30 pm
Tuesday, March 24: 10 am – 2 pm
Hands-On Cookie Decorating $1 per cookie: Noon – 2 pm
Wednesday, March 25: 10 am – 2 pm
Big & Little with Your Core Being $10 per family [yoga]: 11 – 11:45 am
Thursday, March 26: 2 pm – 6 pm (normal hours)
Friday, March 27: 10 am – 2 pm (normal hours)
Saturday, March 28: 10 am – 2 pm (normal hours)
Sunday, March 29: 1 pm – 4 pm (normal hours)
The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Northwest Illinois is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, committed to inspiring all children and families to learn, explore, and create through interactive experiences. Without the support of our members, volunteers and generous donors, we would not be able to continue our commitment to nurturing a love of learning in children. To volunteer, plan a visit, schedule a field trip, or just to learn more about CHOM, visit www.chomnwil.org or email us at .
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]]>Sarah Flashing, Executive Director
(630) 484-1855
[email protected]
For Immediate Release: Tickets Available for Children’s Hands-On Museum Frosty Ball Fundraising Gala Scheduled for February 8
Freeport, Illinois – January 13, 2020 –The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Northwest Illinois (CHOM) is hosting the 3rd Annual Frosty Ball on February 8 at Grand River Hall located at 101 S Liberty Ave in Freeport. The annual fundraiser supports CHOM’s overall mission for children and families to learn, explore, and create through interactive experiences. Doors will open at 5:30 pm and the evening will include food, music, a silent auction and program.
“It’s been a joy being a part of CHOM’s first year in a permanent location and celebrating our achievements at our annual Frosty Ball,” stated Sarah Flashing, Executive Director. “First as a board member and now serving as CHOM’s executive director, not only have I seen the hard work among all of our volunteers to open and maintain the facility, but also and primarily I’ve seen the passion for children in our community to learn and grow. Our volunteers understand that these children are the future of our community and connecting with their learning potential in these early years is crucial.”
“CHOM’s Frosty Ball fundraising gala helps support the museum’s exhibits, programs, and other services” said Jessi Larson, CHOM board president. “We regularly hear from parents and grandparents how grateful they are that CHOM is available. With the support of our community, we can continue to make available these learning through play opportunities for children.”
Tickets to Frosty Ball are $60 per person and can be purchased online at www.chomnwil.org/frosty-ball/. You can also purchase your tickets at CHOM during regular business hours or by emailing [email protected].
Contact us about sponsoring Frosty Ball. Current sponsors include Dimond Bros Insurance, Riteway Furniture & Appliance and Sarah Flashing Creative & Consulting.
The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Northwest Illinois is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, committed to inspiring all children and families to learn, explore, and create through interactive experiences. Without the support of our members, volunteers and generous donors, we would not be able to continue our commitment to nurturing a love of learning in children. To volunteer, plan a visit, schedule a field trip, or just to learn more about CHOM, visit www.chomnwil.org or email us at .
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Freeport, Illinois – September 23, 2019 –The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Northwest Illinois (CHOM) has appointed Sarah Flashing as the museum’s new executive director. In the last 15 years, Flashing has served in various roles in non-profit organizations across the country, including positions in marketing and leadership development. Prior to her move to Freeport in 2018, she served as Executive Director of the Three Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. As part-time executive director of CHOM, she will oversee all aspects of museum operations.
“Throughout my professional career, I’ve been dedicated to helping non-profit organizations grow and have an impact their communities,” Flashing stated. “The children’s museum in Freeport plays a pivotal role in enriching and creating a lasting impact on the lives of children, their families, and the communities of northwest Illinois. That children have this opportunity to learn through play is tremendous for Stephenson county and our whole region. I’m happy I can be part of this effort.”
Learning through play offers many benefits including the opportunity to develop speech and language skills, improved cognitive development and the development of social skills. When children play with others they learn how relationships work.
“Sarah Flashing is the first to be appointed to the role of Executive Director at CHOM,” stated Jessi Larson, CHOM Board President. “Having previously served on the Board of Directors, we know the passion, commitment and skillset she brings to this new role. We’re excited to have her in the role of Executive Director and for CHOM to progress to another chapter.”
Flashing holds a master’s degree from Trinity International University.
To volunteer, plan a visit, schedule a field trip, or just to learn more about CHOM, visit www.chomnwil.org or email us at .
The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Northwest Illinois is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, committed to inspiring all children and families to learn, explore, and create through interactive experiences. Without the support of our members, volunteers and generous donors, we would not be able to continue our commitment to nurturing a love of learning in children. For more information, visit us online at www.chomnwil.org.
25 minutes sessions are scheduled for October 12 at 11 am, 11:30 am and 12 pm. Refreshments will be available.
]]>Recommended donation: $10 per person / $50 per family.
]]>Museums for All is an opportunity for the entire community. Consider partnering with CHOM as an underwriter for this initiative. Your support will help to make resources available to more children and families who might not otherwise be able to enjoy the benefit of the hands-on learning experience. Click here to learn more.
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