#13 MUSEUM FREE FOR ALL - Presented by Amway. Today was an opportunity for EVERYONE to come out and enjoy all that Grand Rapids Museums have to offer. Thanks to AMWAY the Gerald R. Ford Museum, The Grand Rapids Public Museum, The Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Grand Rapids Children's Museum were open to all free of charge from Noon to Five. There were thousands of people downtown today. Getting around was quite a challenge. As you can imagine the museums were in need of many volunteers to make this event run smoothly. I chose to volunteer at the Children's Museum. What a fun day. My task today included handing out sidewalk chalk and hula hoops for the kids to use to keep them entertained while waiting in line to enter the museum. The kids were so much fun. This event allowed many families to learn all about this museum in the hopes that they will return at another time with their kids for some family fun. The Children's Museum literature reflects that their mission is to "celebrate childhood and the joy of learning by providing an interactive, hands-on environment that inspires learning and encourages self directed exploration". As I prepare to turn 40 this summer, I cannot think of a better place to go to feel like a kid again :) The children's museum asks their volunteers to agree to a background check before they have you interact directly with the children. They have many events that occur throughout the year if you are looking for a one time opportunity. They also have regular needs for recurring volunteers. If you would like to learn more about the opportunities available, please contact them at http://www.grcm.org/