DALTON, Ohio — Lori Colon is the driving force behind the Wayne County Children's S.T.E.A.M. Playlab. It's been a dream for over a decade. And it's personal. A health issue impacting her second son as a toddler meant he had to relearn how to communicate. Experiences at children's science centers in Columbus and Cleveland helped.
"We were able to just, right there, learn together and do these different exhibits together and learn alongside each other,” said Lori Colon, the Founder and CEO Wayne County Children's S.T.E.A.M. Playlab. “And, and so through that we were building relationship and, building just that connection back with my son that we so desperately needed in those moments."
The Playlab will be housed in a brand-new building, backed by the Dallas Steiner family. The 30,000-sq. foot space will be packed with exhibits. An entrance that looks like an Amish barn, an interactive river that leads to a lost city and a 32-foot tall tree serve as a main feature. Computer stations, art studios, a maker space and more, Colon has planned every inch of the space.
Future Wayne County Children's S.T.E.A.M. Playlab
"We want them to be able to come and explore, put their hands to it and create and design and, be able to see their dreams come to fruition. Figure out how things work, but something they're really interested in," said Colon.
A hospital, fire department, auto repair shop even a grocery store can be explored. From dinosaurs to outer space, it is an ambitious project. One this new non-profit is ready for.
"I was like, this is this is amazing,” said Katie Adkins, the Board Vice President for the Wayne County Children's S.T.E.A.M. Playlab. “And I know that if I start now, I will leave in part a legacy for my family because I know this will be here for years to come."
Money is still being raised for the $7 million project. Exhibits will open in stages as funding goals are met. At a recent open house, it was evident to Colon, with the community's support, it's just a matter of time.
"We had a little boy, 4 years old, bring us his change he had saved. And he said, I can't wait for this to open,” Colon said. “I was just so incredibly touched that he sees the value in this, even at his age."
A fantastic value for all families in Northeast Ohio.
It's estimated 53,000 visitors a year would come through the Playlab, not only spreading their mission of creativity, but an economic boost for tourism.