The Homewood Science Center has been awarded $50,000 from Cook County’s Arts Creative Placemaking initiative, which supports community-driven art projects in suburban areas.
According to Edie Dobrez, Homewood Science Center’s executive director, the funding will help the center develop a new hands-on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) department that will use learning through play to engage children and families.
The project expands on the science center’s existing Playful Learning Landscapes initiative, and will feature both indoor and outdoor components that blend math, art, music, and science together. Community members will collaborate and play a key role in developing the final design for the project, Dobrez said.
“We’re thrilled to bring more STEAM learning opportunities to the Southland,” Dobrez said in a press release, adding, “this funding allows us to create inclusive, joyful and inspiring spaces that reflect the voices and creativity of our community.”
The science center will gather public input during its biannual Chicago Southland STEM Network at 7 p.m. on Nov. 12. Ideas and feedback shared at the event will be used to shape the final installation estimated for 2026, she said.
According to a news release, out of over 100 submissions that were received for the grant, the Homewood Science Center was one of 14 nonprofit organizations selected to receive funding. Grants ranged from $50,000 to $250,000, and are funded by the American Rescue Plan Act.
“These grants will support inspiring projects that center community and the arts as the foundation for positive and long-lasting impact. When we support artists and nonprofit arts organizations across Cook County, we promote expression, foster understanding and spark creativity,” said President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners Toni Preckwinkle in a news release.
