Naper Settlement receiving $749,700 state grant

Naper Settlement is receiving a $749,700 state grant to help fund the construction of a Digital Experience Welcome Zone inside the Naperville museum's Innovation Gateway, which is a new visitor welcome and education center.

Thirty-six museums are receiving an Illinois Public Museum Grant being that's funded by the state's Rebuild Illinois capital program. The 1,270 square foot Digital Experience Welcome Zone will feature a digital exhibit display, an audience gathering and seating area, and three mobile ticket kiosks.

The Digital Experience Welcome Zone is part of a $3.7 million capital campaign project to fund the Innovation Gateway. The new welcome center will allow Naper Settlement to expand its programming and create an entrance that is accessible and welcoming for all visitors.

Naper Settlement serves 290,000 annual visitors, including 35,000 children from 112 school districts.

"Visitors will step into a warm, energetic and inviting space that celebrates our community and is accessible for people of all abilities," said Rena Tamayo-Calabrese, president and CEO of Naper Settlement.