The Above & Beyond Children’s Museum (ABCM) is a non-profit organization servicing children and their families of Sheboygan County and it’s out of town visitors. Located in downtown Sheboygan, it has enjoyed over 17 years of community service enhancing the lives and experiences of children and their families. From it’s humble beginning as a traveling road show featuring interactive children’s exhibits, it quickly outgrew it’s first location open only one day a month, to become an established community treasure offering service six days a week. It has been operating from it’s three-story historic location at 902 North 8th Street since 1999 enriching thousands of children’s lives.
Mission Statement
“A special place for children and their families where play and education connect through exploration and discovery”
Vision Statement
We want to provide a positive learning environment through community partnership with interactive programs and captivating exhibits that exceed our childrens’ wildest dreams and imagination.
Our History
1992 - Board of Directors formed; Kubala Washatko and Jacobson Rost donated services to develop building and logo, respectively.
1993 - Incorporated as a 501 (c)(3) corporation. Assoc. of Youth Museums membership approved. First five hands-on exhibits constructed and displayed at various locations in Sheboygan County.
1994 - Business Plan professionally prepared. M&I Bank donated storefront for exhibit demonstration site. School groups and birthday parties were accommodated by appointment.
1995 – Additional exhibits constructed and displayed. Road America contracted with Above & Beyond volunteers to sell programs as a fundraiser.
1996 – Readiness study completed; Board approved location of downtown Sheboygan and former People’s building purchased. Founder’s Circle established with contributors of $1,000 or more.
1997 – Renovations began at 902 N. 8th Street, the museums permanent home. Developed long-range plan and kicked off Building Campaign.
1998 – Above & Beyond recognized in USA Today for “Make a Difference Day”. Museum expands hours and offers more time slots for group tours and birthday parties. Renovation is near completion.
1999 – Above & Beyond opens it’s doors full-time and offers major exhibits such as the Seigel Circus, Giant Pin Screen, Sky Crawl, Totally Toddlers and Tree House Adventure.
2000 – Above & Beyond continues to ofer hands-on learning fun to families, school groups, day cares, scouting groups and special-needs groups.
2005 – Offered bi-weekly Science Day Camps and membership reached 100.
2006 - Contracted staff exhibits for hire resulting with Camp Jeep at Road America. Membership increased to 400.
2007 - General admission increased to $5.00. Began working with Curative Senior Services to fill employment positions.
2008 – Hired Melissa Niedfeldt as Executive Director. Closed ABCM for 30 days to implement business plan and rebuild community relationships. October 1, 2008 – Grand Re-Opening. A few original exhibits were refurbished including the Seigel Circus, Switch Exhibit, Magent Table, Radiometer and Rachel’s Favorite.
2009 – Hired Jeff Mehn as Executive Director. Received matching grant from Efroymson Family Fund in Indiana.