Inside the World Awareness Children’s Museum | Buying Local #73

In episode 73 of the Buying Local podcast, host Mike Nelson sits down with Bethanie Lawrence to explore how the World Awareness Children’s Museum is bringing global culture and creativity to kids in the local community. They dive into nonprofit leadership, navigating challenges like the pandemic, and the importance of arts education in childhood development.Learn more about Bethanie Lawrence and the World Awareness Children’s Museum on their website at worldchildrensmuseum.org. You can also find them on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn by searching for the World Awareness Children’s Museum.0:00 Intro and guest welcome2:00 History and mission of the museum4:00 What makes the museum unique (arts vs STEM focus)6:00 Age ranges and who the museum serves8:00 Bethanie’s background and move to the area10:00 Becoming executive director12:00 Leading through the pandemic14:00 Running a nonprofit like a business16:00 Revenue streams and community support18:00 Leadership style and managing teams20:00 School partnerships and outreach programs22:00 Annual gala and fundraising efforts24:00 How local businesses can contribute26:00 Summer hours and tourism impact28:00 Summer camps and youth programs30:00 Final thoughts and how to get involved