Impact Report
July 2023-June 2024
A Year of Transformation
2023-24 Board of Directors
Calvin McRae
Chair
Pam Anglin
Chair Elect
Chad Setliff
Past Chair
Michelle Klosterman
Secretary
Frank Cardenas
Treasurer
Christophe Blanc
Gerard Clodomir
Vivian Coates
Erin Craver
Conrad Emmerich
J.K. Givens
Kevin Goode
Derek Hicks
Alexandra Hoskins
Luke Jackson
Sheila Kanlisi
Alex Kendall
Latasha Barr Lewis
Don Martin
Kaushal Mehta
Robin Miller
Kevin Mundy
Rosa Otero
Tiffani Otey
Rodrigo Pocasangre
Latoya Robinson
Jaleema Speaks
Mesia Steed
Adam Suter
Katie Thompson
Carrie Vickery
Danta Williams
Preston Yates
From the Board Chair
Reflecting on this past fiscal year, I am struck by the extraordinary transformation of Kaleideum and the profound impact our reimagined museum has already had on the community. Since opening our doors on February 17, 2024, we have seen firsthand how a space designed for creativity, exploration, and learning can ignite curiosity in visitors of all ages.
As Board Chair, I have had the privilege of witnessing the joy, discovery, and sense of connection that Kaleideum fosters every day. The response from our community has been remarkable, affirming our belief that interactive, high-quality learning experiences should be accessible to all. Through initiatives like Museums for All, we continue to remove barriers and open doors for families across our region, ensuring that Kaleideum truly belongs to everyone.
Looking ahead, we are eager to build upon this momentum. Our focus remains on deepening community engagement, forging new partnerships, and enriching the visitor experience with innovative programming and exhibits. We are committed to broadening our reach — bringing more students through our doors, creating dynamic collaborations, and ensuring that Kaleideum serves as a vital resource for education and inspiration.
This is only the beginning. With your support, we will continue to strengthen our impact, making Kaleideum not just a museum, but a cornerstone of learning and discovery for generations to come. Thank you for being part of this journey — we look forward to all that lies ahead.
With gratitude,
Calvin McRae
Fiscal Year 2023-24 Board Chair, Kaleideum
MISSION
Inspiring wonder, curiosity, and lifelong learning in our children and community through interactive play and discovery.
We achieve this through the overlapping lenses of literacy, the arts, and STEM.
VISION
We envision a creative, innovative learning ecosystem that equips and empowers us all to make a difference in our ever-changing world.
VALUES
Resilience | Insightfulness | Innovation
Accountability | Relationship-Driven
From the CEO
As I look back at the whirlwind fiscal year 2023-24, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for this community and the incredible journey we have been on together. This was a year of transformation — one marked by heartfelt goodbyes, exciting new beginnings, and a deepened commitment to ensuring that every person who walks through our doors feels a sense of belonging.
On December 31, 2023, we closed the doors to Kaleideum North, a space that had been a place of joy and discovery for so many. There was nostalgia in saying goodbye, but more than that, there was anticipation — because we knew what was coming. Just weeks later, on February 17, 2024, we opened the reimagined Kaleideum in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem, a place designed to be a reflection of our mission: Inspiring wonder, curiosity, and lifelong learning in our children and community through interactive play and discovery.
Walking through this space, you can feel the energy. The hum of curiosity is alive in every corner, from toddlers taking their first steps in Little Learners to adults rediscovering the magic of play at a Kaleideum After Dark event. Every exhibit was designed with intentionality, ensuring that there is something for everyone — from the very young to lifelong learners in their golden years. Families find comfort in our wellness rooms, parents and children alike delight in hands-on experiences that scaffold learning across generations, and guests of all backgrounds navigate the museum with ease thanks to bilingual signage in English and Spanish.
Perhaps the most profound change we have seen is in the people we serve. Kaleideum has always been a place for the whole community, but now, that community is broader and more diverse than ever. Since moving to the new building, we have seen a dramatic increase in participation in our Museums for All program, welcoming families who might not have otherwise been able to visit due to financial challenges. We have strengthened partnerships with nonprofits, providing outreach memberships and complimentary field trips that make Kaleideum a resource beyond its walls. The museum has also become a gathering space, hosting neighborhood meetings and community conversations, reinforcing that we are not just in this community but of this community.
This transformation would not have been possible without the unwavering support of so many. Forsyth County’s steadfast commitment made this incredible new building a reality, and the City of WinstonSalem’s investment in Liberty Plaza has helped extend Kaleideum’s impact beyond our walls and into the heart of downtown. We are also incredibly grateful to the State of North Carolina, whose belief in our mission has shaped our future in ways we could only dream of. And to the many donors, friends, and community partners
Fiscal Year 2023-24 At a Glance
134,114 individuals visited Kaleideum during the fiscal year
who have given their time, talent, and treasure — this museum is a testament to your generosity and vision.
As this remarkable year came to a close, we reached yet another milestone with the opening of the Rooftop Adventure in early June. Standing up there, looking out over the city, it is impossible not to feel a sense of possibility. That same feeling pulses through Kaleideum every day. This is a place where imaginations soar, where barriers fall away, and where people from all walks of life can experience the joy of learning together.
Thank you for being part of this journey and for believing in the power of curiosity, creativity, and connection. The future of Kaleideum is bright, and I cannot wait to see where we go from here — together.
With gratitude,
Elizabeth Dampier Chief Executive Officer, Kaleideum
12,078 students came on field trips
144 different schools visited Kaleideum, 49 percent of which were Title 1 schools
2,248 memberships were sold.
810 campers participated in Camp Kaleideum
Kaleideum opened the doors to the new museum on February 17, 2024. From that time until the end of the fiscal year (June 30, 2024) we served visitors from 42 states!
Empowering Families
Kaleideum and Novant’s New Parent Membership Program
With the opening of the reimagined Kaleideum in February 2024, the museum launched the New Parent Membership Program in partnership with Novant Health, offering free annual memberships to new mothers. This initiative provides a welcoming and enriching space where families can explore, learn, and play together during the critical early years of childhood development.
“Kaleideum and Novant Health share a deep commitment to supporting families by providing resources and spaces that foster connection, learning, and well-being,” said Elizabeth Dampier, CEO of Kaleideum. “This partnership is a purposeful effort to introduce new families to the many opportunities at Kaleideum — where parents and caregivers can engage with their children, meet others in their community, and participate in meaningful programming. Together, we are working to create a stronger community where families can thrive.”
Kaleideum serves as a third space — beyond home and work — where caregivers can engage in shared experiences, build relationships, and find support. Between mid-February and June 30, 2024, there were 153 parents who participated in the program, reflecting a strong interest in engaging, enriching spaces that encourage family connection and early learning.
A key feature for new families is Little Learners, an exhibition area designed for infants and toddlers (ages birth-2) and their caregivers. This thoughtfully curated space provides a safe, stimulating environment for early exploration and social interaction. Featuring soft play structures, sensory-rich experiences, and interactive elements, Little Learners encourages movement and discovery while offering caregivers a comfortable setting to connect with their children and other parents.
Beyond Little Learners, Kaleideum provides diverse experiences tailored to young children and their families. From splashing through the interactive Wonders of Water exhibit to sparking creativity through art and STEM activities, the museum offers engaging opportunities that strengthen bonds between caregivers and children.
This partnership with Novant Health reflects a shared dedication to family support and community wellness. The complimentary membership allows parents to return throughout the year, watching their children grow, thrive, and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Looking ahead, Kaleideum and Novant Health anticipate welcoming approximately 500 families per year into the program. More than just museum access, this initiative is about empowering families, fostering connections, and creating lasting impacts that will strengthen the community for generations to come.
ACCESS AND OPPORTUNITY
Fiscal Year 2023-24
17,048 visitors utilized Museums for All, a reduced admission program. Community Investment Value: $179,004
2,033 visitors utilized Community Access library passes. Community Investment Value: $22,851
3,964
Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools students visited for free on a field trip. Community Investment Value: $27,748
2,551
Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Title 1 School students received free educational programs. Community Investment Value: $15,306
1,786 educators visited through Kaleideum’s free educator program. Community Investment Value: $26,780
923
visitors used the Blue Star Museums program for active duty military and their families.
153 families became Kaleideum members through the Novant Health New Parent program.
Encouraging Courage!
Kaleideum’s Rooftop Adventure Brings Risky Play to New Heights
Today’s childhoods look remarkably different from those of previous decades. With more structured schedules, supervised play, and safety measures, children now often miss out on what experts call risky play — activities that involve an element of danger, uncertainty, or physical challenge. Research shows that this type of play is essential for development, helping kids build resilience, confidence, and problem-solving skills. It’s a way for children to test their boundaries and learn how to navigate the world on their own terms.
“There’s a growing conversation about balancing child safety with allowing freedom for risky play. I noticed first-hand that many of us in my generation fondly remember engaging in risky play as children but then struggled with anxiety about allowing our own children to experience that risk-taking,” said Traci Connor, Kaleideum’s VP of Exhibits and Planning. “Many experts believe we’ve now firmly swung too far toward prioritizing safety at all costs. Kaleideum designed the Rooftop Adventure to be part of the solution; to be a space where families can rediscover the thrill of risky play in a supportive environment.”
There’s an important distinction between risky play and hazards. Risky play includes activities like climbing trees or engaging in rough-and-tumble games. These experiences offer benefits, and children are generally aware of their capabilities to handle the risks involved. Hazards, on the other hand, offer no benefits and often include dangers that children aren’t aware exist, such as broken playground equipment. A well-designed play environment should aim to eliminate hazards while preserving opportunities for beneficial risky play.
What Is Rooftop Adventure?
Rooftop Adventure is an expansive multi-level outdoor wooden playground structure designed to engage visitors of all ages in active play and exploration. The first rooftop playground of its kind in North Carolina includes a variety of features, including three slides that cater to different challenge levels, a climbing wall, a balance beam, and a wheelchair-accessible bridge. Rotating hammock cocoons allow guests to develop balance and coordination, engage in imaginative play, or simply enjoy the view. The Kaleidoscape Climber serves as both a work of art and a climbing apparatus, encouraging physical activities and creative exploration. In addition, a walking track invites visitors to exercise while taking in the city’s scenic vistas.
Rooftop Adventure balances the excitement and uncertainty of risky play with safety. Climbing structures range from a few inches to several feet off the ground. Individuals climb, balance, and hang while calculating the risk of falling. Visitors can feel the thrill of speed on the slides and swings, and
also experience a vicarious rush by observing others participating in challenging activities, which helps build empathy and risk assessment. Signs prompt visitors to notice when they need to take a break from the excitement and rest for a moment. Children — and adults — are encouraged to determine for themselves which the risks they take on. Kaleideum celebrates the bravery it takes to push beyond one’s comfort zone as well as the courage it takes to decline an activity when not feeling ready … at least not yet.
Why Is Risky Play Important?
Several studies and articles in developmental psychology and education research support the idea that a disproportionate focus on safety can limit the varied stimulation and challenges children need for physical and mental development. “Focusing excessively on safety can hinder children’s ability to develop resilience, selfconfidence, and problem-solving skills,” Connor said. “Risky play helps develop both physical and emotional skills that reduce the prevalence of severe injuries and anxiety in the long run.”
By creating an outdoor playground on top of a building, Kaleideum promotes diverse and sustained engagement while adding the element of perceived risk. Adults can join in the fun, setting a positive example of how to face fears and set limits. This space presents opportunities for parents and children to discuss healthy ways to think about risk and failure and to foster a growth mindset — the willingness to continue learning despite setbacks. The Rooftop Adventure also provides caregivers a chance to practice tolerating their
own discomfort around allowing their children to take risks. Early childhood experts suggest anxious parents express their feelings honestly to their children without being overly controlling, using phrases like “I feel a little nervous when you climb that high, but I trust you to be careful,” or “Can you share your plan with me for how you’re going to get down from there?”
By embracing the concept of risky play, Kaleideum’s Rooftop Adventure provides a fun and engaging environment while also supporting the holistic development of children. “Kaleideum is committed to fostering an atmosphere where curiosity and exploration thrive, where children can practice assessing risk for themselves, and where parents can practice pushing through their own fears to allow their children to engage in risky play,” Connor said. “We believe that through these experiences, our visitors will gain valuable skills and confidence that will serve them well throughout their lives.”
Kaleideum After Dark
Creating a Space for Playful Adults in downtown Winston-Salem
Kaleideum is no stranger to reinvention. Since opening its new downtown Winston-Salem location, the museum has evolved into a dynamic “third space” where community members can gather, explore, and create shared experiences. In an era when social isolation and loneliness are on the rise, places that foster connection and engagement are more important than ever. In May 2023, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy identified loneliness as a public health concern, highlighting its profound effects on mental and physical health. The need for an unusual place to gather is filled every second Saturday at Kaleideum After Dark, a 21+ event series that transforms the museum into a playground for adults — blending curiosity, creativity, and connection in new and unexpected ways.
Interest in Kaleideum After Dark has grown steadily over the past year, with each event drawing larger crowds and solidifying the museum’s role as a gathering space for adults. The first adult event in the new location — Kaleideum After Dark: pARTy — saw a little over 100 attendees exploring art-inspired exhibits, engaging in a collaborative
art project, and connecting over food and interactive experiences. In May, the attendance doubled with Kaleideum After Dark: Stupid Games, Stupid Prizes, an evening of absurd, low-stakes competitions that proved sometimes the silliest games bring the biggest laughs. Then in June, with Kaleideum After Dark: Raise the Roof, the momentum truly took off. More than 900 attendees flooded the museum to celebrate the grand opening of the Rooftop Adventure, enjoying signature cocktails, glow tag in the exhibits, and live music from the band Hold Tone while taking in Winston-Salem’s skyline. The incredible turnout reinforced Kaleideum’s status as not just a museum, but a cultural hub for all ages.
These events aren’t just about entertainment; they mark a shift in how people perceive and experience Kaleideum. As Triad City Beat noted in their coverage of the museum as a third space, Kaleideum After Dark “invites Winston-Salem’s adults to reclaim play, rediscover wonder, and step away from the daily grind in an environment designed for joy.” In today’s world — where people increasingly find themselves
disconnected — opportunities to engage in a lively, interactive setting offer a refreshing alternative.
By hosting these Second Saturday events, Kaleideum is cultivating a uniquely Winston-Salem social scene, one that bridges the gap between cultural institution and nightlife destination. It’s a space where visitors don’t just passively observe — they actively participate, forging memories that extend beyond the museum walls.
As Kaleideum After Dark continues to grow, so does its impact. Each event welcomes new audiences to the museum, provides fresh engagement opportunities for longtime residents, and strengthens the city’s social fabric. Whether dancing under the stars, competing in hilariously ridiculous games, or unleashing hidden artistic talents, attendees aren’t just visiting a museum — they’re becoming part of a movement in a city that is ready for a museum that belongs to everyone.
Glowing Toward the Future
The 2023 Kaleidoscope Ball
On Friday, October 13, 2023, the Millennium Center in downtown Winston-Salem glowed with excitement as Kaleideum hosted its annual Kaleidoscope Ball, the museum’s signature fundraising event. This highly anticipated evening brought together community leaders, supporters, and friends of the museum to celebrate Kaleideum’s mission of inspiring wonder, curiosity, and lifelong learning.
The Kaleidoscope Ball has been a cornerstone fundraising event for Kaleideum since 2018, following the 2016 merger of the Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem and SciWorks to become Kaleideum, a name inspired by the combination of kaleidoscope, an instrument of art and science, and museum. To highlight the inspirational quality of the kaleidoscope, the museum reimagined and renamed its annual black tie fundraiser to be the Kaleidoscope Ball and relocated it to the Millennium Center in downtown Winston-Salem. This remained the home of the event for several years, including 2020’s pandemic version called “Let’s Have a Ball,” which was designed as a take home “party in a box” that could be picked up at the event space.
It’s Glow Time!
The 2023 Kaleidoscope Ball theme, “It’s Glow Time!,” was a playful nod to “It’s Go Time!” — a fitting mantra for Kaleideum as it prepared to open its long-awaited new museum. The evening not only celebrated Kaleideum’s past and present but also marked a thrilling countdown to a new chapter in the museum’s history. Just two months after the Ball, Kaleideum North officially closed on December 31, 2023, making way for the grand opening of the reimagined Kaleideum in February 2024. The energy in the room reflected the community’s anticipation for this momentous occasion, as guests looked forward to a museum designed to provide immersive, hands-on learning experiences for all ages.
A Celebration with Purpose
While the Kaleidoscope Ball was a night of celebration, it was also a night of purpose. The event raised more than $310,000 to support Kaleideum’s Access and Opportunity Initiatives, ensuring that all children in Forsyth County, regardless of economic background, have the opportunity to discover and learn at Kaleideum. These initiatives include:
• Free Field Trips for Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Public Schools: All WS/FCS students can visit Kaleideum at no cost during a field trip, enriching their education with hands-on, interactive learning experiences.
• Programs for Title I Schools: Schools with a high percentage of children from low-income families receive free educational programs to foster a love for learning and exploration.
• Reduced Admission for Low-Income Families: Through the Museums for All program, Kaleideum provides discounted admission to families in need, making the museum accessible to all.
• Community Access Passes: Available at local libraries, these passes offer free admission to Kaleideum, encouraging community engagement and lifelong learning.
Beyond these initiatives, the Kaleidoscope Ball helps fund hands-on educational experiences, provide camp scholarships, and support essential museum operations — from hiring talented educators to feeding the museum’s resident snakes to keeping the electricity running.
An Evening that Lit Up the Future
The success of the 2023 Kaleidoscope Ball was made possible through the leadership of Glow-Chairs Parker and Chris Tegeler, along with Emily and Van Williamson, and Honorary Glo-Chairs Marie and Guy Arcuri and Liz and Stan Kelly. Their dedication helped ensure an unforgettable evening that not only celebrated Kaleideum’s impact on the community but also set the stage for the museum’s bright future.
As the night came to a close, attendees left with a renewed sense of community and purpose, knowing that their support was helping to keep the lights on — both literally and figuratively — at Kaleideum. The 2023 Kaleidoscope Ball didn’t just shine a light on the museum’s mission — it ensured that it would continue to glow brightly for generations to come.
HandsOn Northwest North Carolina, in partnership with the United Way of Forsyth County and Salem College, honored 16 outstanding individuals with the 2024 Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards. Among them was Kaleideum volunteer Max Chen, recipient of the Youth Award.
Max’s journey with Kaleideum began at just 2 years old. Before the 2016 merger with the Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem, the the science center was known as SciWorks, and it quickly became Max’s favorite place to explore. He was captivated by the PhysicsWorks Gallery, especially the spinning chair, and he always looked forward to the rotating traveling exhibits. Over the years, his curiosity for science
A Lifelong Love of Science Turned into Service Volunteer Spotlight: Max Chen
grew, and so did his connection to Kaleideum.
By the spring of 2021, Max, then a high school freshman, was searching for a meaningful volunteer opportunity. Naturally, he turned to Kaleideum. As an assistant summer camp counselor, Max brought energy, knowledge, and an innate ability to connect with young campers. He made science fun, meeting children where they were and celebrating their unique interests, such as the encyclopedic knowledge of world flags and airports demonstrated by one camper named Matthew. Whether explaining concepts or simply making sure every camper felt seen, Max had a gift for making learning exciting.
In 2023, Max expanded his volunteer role and worked closely with Carson Moore, Kaleideum’s Exhibits and Collections Manager. His meticulous attention to detail made him a perfect fit for cataloging the museum’s extensive collection, which included everything from shells and bones to taxidermy specimens and preserved sea animals. He also assisted in testing new exhibits to identify potential issues and suggest improvements to enhance visitor engagement.
Max’s contributions to Kaleideum have been nothing short of exceptional. Whether leading young learners in camp, preserving artifacts, or refining exhibits, he has approached every task with dedication, enthusiasm, and a deep love for science. His impact will continue to be felt by future generations who, like him, will find inspiration and wonder within the museum’s walls. Kaleideum had 358 individual volunteers who contributed more than 3,401 hours of their time and talent at Kaleideum!
Revenues and Expenses
Kaleideum Statement of Financial Position for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2024
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
120 West 3rd Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
kaleideum.org
I am struck by the extraordinary transformation of Kaleideum and the profound impact our reimagined museum has already had on the community.
McRae, Fiscal Year 2023-24 Board Chair,
Thank You!
Thank you to the organizations and individuals who donated to the Kaleideum Annual Fund between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024, to support programs, exhibits, and events.
Kaleideum is also extremely grateful for the generosity of donors whose investment in our capital campaign transformed Kaleideum’s vision into a vibrant new museum.
For a complete list of donors for fiscal year 2023-24, please scan the QR code or visit tinyurl.com/KaleideumDonors.
Calvin
Kaleideum