Des Plaines Children’s Museum unveils big plans and saves beloved Dad’s slot cars track

Des Plaines Children’s Museum (DPCM) published its long-awaited website and social media campaign this week.

“We are very excited to have taken this critical step forward after much hard work and preparation,” said Nicholas Strohmayer, DPCM president and board chair. “The powerful history of the people and place of Des Plaines will serve as the foundation for DPCM, to build on the museum’s mission and design a “home away from home — where all children and their grown-ups can feel welcome and loved.”

“DPCM is honored and humbled by the passionate response to its initial public outreach. It’s clear that our community is ready for this museum,” said Elisabeth Gavin, vice president of the DPCM board.

Fundraising and event planning are already well underway, and DPCM expects Des Plaines and surrounding communities will continue to turn out in support of its mission.

Visit dpchildrensmuseum.org, to learn more about how you can help, including upcoming event details, volunteer applications, and a secure donation portal.

Thanks to a donation from a local family, DPCM is fortunate to have acquired rights to purchase all the neon signage from the facade of the former Dad’s Slot Cars building, the large oval slot car track, slot cars and controllers, as well as glass display cases, as the museum’s first exhibit.

At 2 p.m. on March 27, Ron Onesti, of the nearby Des Plaines Theater, will interview Strohmayer, at a public event to be hosted outside the former Dad’s Slot Cars location, 700 Lee St., in downtown Des Plaines.

Strohmayer and members of the DPCM board will be available following the interview for questions from the public.