FOR THE GAZETTE

STEVENS POINT — Tactical Escape 101 is bringing a new temporary escape room to the Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum in downtown Stevens Point.

This year’s game is “Escape the Museum, Vol. 1,” and sports a fun story – find and unlock the vault to fund the museum’s next big project. Teams will have just 45 minutes to sneak into the “vault room” and find as much cash as possible for the museum.

This will be Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum and Tactical Escape 101’s first partnership. The Chippewa Valley Museum in Eau Claire has received over $40,000 in their partnership since 2016 and offered unique escape room experiences for Halloween and has added Christmas as well the last two years. Tactical Escape 101 owner Jennifer Fonfara loves designing puzzles for these functions as a way to give back to the community.

“There’s so much joy and connection coming out of these events. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude that the Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum is willing to give it a try and hope we get to do this even more in the future and make an impact on Stevens Point like we have Eau Claire,” said Fonfara. “After six years in business here in Stevens Point, we love it here in Point. When we found out the museum had an unfulfilled need of a big screen monitor it was our first priority, and then we decided to fundraise for further funds to help the museum. Many of our staff hold this museum in such high esteem. They call it a staple in their upbringing. If you’ve met our staff, you know that warms my heart. They are my hands, feet and heart.”

The Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum (CWCM) has been an asset to the Stevens Point community for over 25 years. Their mission is to engage children and adults by providing a safe space where learning and play come together. Their 7,000-square-foot facility offers hands-on exploration through exhibits, weekly STEM and art classes, pop-up classes, special events and so much more. Making the museum accessible to all is a top priority to CWCM. Through local and national partnership programs, they are able to offer reduced and free admissions so everyone can come play, learn and explore.

CWCM is a 501c3 non-profit organization and relies on community support through donations and sponsorships. The “Escape the Museum Fundraiser” with Tactical Escape 101 is the perfect opportunity to have an amazing experience and support the CWCM. You can visit their website at cwchildrensmuseum.org to learn more about their mission and programming.

Escape the Museum runs Tuesday, August 15 at the Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum, located at 1100 Main Street, Suite 200 (upstairs) in Stevens Point. Some scholarships are available. To donate or to take advantage of the scholarship program please contact Kristy at the museum. Reservations for 2-12 players must be made in advance online through TacticalEscape101.com. The cost is $300 per group. All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by adults, with a two-adult minimum. Tactical Escape 101 gift certificates, discounts, specials or coupons will not be accepted.

We invite you to put it on your community calendars and welcome any questions or help in getting the word out.