ROCKLAND — The Coastal Children’s Museum, a nonprofit organization now celebrating its 10th anniversary on the Midcoast, is the recipient of $10,000 thanks to the Fisher Charitable Foundation. The funds will be used for updating their current marine displays and fish tanks, and toward their newly opened marine exhibit, “Coastal Critters Care Center.”

The Coastal Critters Care Center offers education and enrichment featuring a live web cam of seabirds and ocean creatures, a hands-on, pretend Marine Life Vet Clinic, a recycling activity and teaching children about marine life and the importance of protecting the ocean and keeping it clean. 

Program Director Elise Huff put the exhibit together with the help of many local volunteers including Founders Felicity Bowditch and Elaine Wilson, Board President Hannah Jones, Greg Jones, Board member Rick Bernard, and local Key Bank employees.

Vice President/Artist Gayle Bedigian and Wood Sculptor Carl Solberg donated their painting and woodworking expertise.

“The Museum is extremely grateful to the Fisher Charitable Foundation for their generosity,” said the Museum, in a news release.

The youth organization is open year-round and promotes the joy of learning through interactive play for children ages 18 months-9 years old and their parents and grandparents through fun exhibits and colorful displays, including: a pretend general store, real boat, slides, climbing wall, stage, costumes, puppets, crafts, woodshop, puzzles, music, activities, guest speakers and workshops.

Thousands of local families and visitors to Maine have utilized the museum in the last decade.

Located on the water at Sharp’s Point South, at 75 Mechanic Street, Rockland, the museum is open Wednesdays-Saturdays, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; and Sundays, from 1 p.m.- 4 p.m. (Closed Monday and Tuesdays).

For more information, visit coastalchildrensmuseum.org or call (207) 596-0300.