Vision

To be southeastern Indiana’s destination for playful learning—where young people are empowered to explore their creativity, discover their passions, and grow into the innovators, problem solvers, and leaders of tomorrow.

Goals

1. 1.Expand Access to Transformative, Hands-On Learning by opening a 10,000 square foot museum in our region. Through this we will increase annual participation across museum visits, field trips, mobile programming, and community outreach to ensure children throughout southeastern Indiana have equitable access to high-quality, play-based STEAM experiences.
2. 2.Build a Regional Workforce Learning Pipeline and position KDF as an early catalyst for workforce development by connecting children ages 0–14 to manufacturing, design, engineering, arts, and renewable energy pathways through partnerships with schools, local industry, and higher education.
3. 3.Serve as a Catalyst for Community Pride and Economic Vitality and Elevate southeastern Indiana as a destination for families by creating a vibrant, child-centered space that drives tourism, strengthens downtown vitality, and reinforces a shared “Things Are Made Here” identity.