Popping its way to success in North Central Wisconsin
Growing family traditions, one pine tree at a time
July 28, 2025
SHEBOYGAN – Above and Beyond Children’s Museum has received a transformational $100,000 gift from an anonymous community donor.
Executive Director Cate Tinker said this anonymous gift will directly enhance the museum’s ability to serve working families who may struggle to visit during traditional hours; provide crucial mental health support for parents and caregivers; and ensure that children with disabilities have meaningful, inclusive play experiences alongside their families.
“Above & Beyond Children’s Museum is thrilled to announce the biggest programming gift in the museum’s history – a transformative donation that marks a major milestone in the museum’s commitment to inclusion, accessibility and community health,” she said.
The gift of funding, Tinker said, will impact the museum’s 2025/2026 budgets and support programmatic expansion, including extended evening hours; a pilot program called “Play for All” for families who have children with disabilities; and current “Play is Healing” extensions launching in September 2025.
Allie Tasche, director of operations, said the museum is connecting with multiple community partners, including Rogers Behavioral Health, the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin, the Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin, Aurora Sheboygan Memorial Medical Center Hospital Staff and Prevea Health to inform its programming.
“Inclusion isn’t something we stumble into – it’s something we co-create with the community, through deep listening, thoughtful design and sustained commitment,” she said. “This generous donation grants us the ability to meet the moment with action – removing barriers, expanding access and placing joy, dignity and belonging at the center of every experience.”
To further enhance accessibility, Tinker said the museum will be purchasing its adjacent parking lot, which will be converted to include at least two ADA parking spaces, to be utilized for both staff and museum visitors.
She said two anonymous donors contributed to the approximately $50,000 fee for the purchase and conversion of the parking lot that was previously city-managed.
Visit abkids.org to make a donation or volunteer to help create transformative play experiences for children and families throughout the Sheboygan area.
