CuriOdyssey

Major Update on IMLS Court Case The U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island granted a permanent injunction in Rhode Island v. Trump, declaring that attempts to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) were unlawful, unconstitutional, and in direct violation of Congress’s statutory authority. This ruling is a major victory for museums, libraries, and the communities they serve, protecting the essential work IMLS enables across all 50 states. The Administration is expected to appeal, and Congress must still appropriate funds for IMLS for FY26 to ensure its continued operation. Despite the President’s earlier proposal to eliminate IMLS, draft funding bills in both the House and Senate currently propose only minor decreases, a testament to strong, coordinated advocacy across our field. 📣 Write to your members of Congress today to urge full funding for the IMLS Office of Museum Services in FY26. Read the full alert here: https://lnkd.in/eRNm_9qN

Volunteering at CuriOdyssey for over a year has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Every Sunday, as a docent, I have been educating over 150 visitors of all ages about rescued animals and conservation using bio-facts. I’ve met people from all over the world - such as from Ukraine, Peru, Spain, England, Japan, India, China, Denmark- and even someone who proudly shared their Native American ancestry. It’s amazing how science and community can connect people across different cultures and backgrounds. When I started, I was the first and youngest person to volunteer as a docent at CuriOdyssey, but I was welcomed with warmth, kindness, and support. And I have now invited my friend Nico L, and we work in a team every Sunday. This experience has taught me that volunteering is about giving, not just gaining. I’ve grown in empathy and communication, and I now see how small actions can spark curiosity and inspire meaningful change. Thank you to my manager, Tonaka Diane Kendrick, CDP, Nico L, Andy Jones, volunteers, staff, and to all the visitors who make every Sunday so special!

💫 Exciting News from Magical Bridge! It is with tremendous gratitude and joy that we welcome Laurel Blackett Miranda to the Magical Bridge Foundation Advisory Council. Laurel has been a generous supporter, advisor, and friend to Magical Bridge for many years, and we’re thrilled to formalize her role as a trusted thought partner and champion of inclusive play. As Board Chair of CuriOdyssey and a tireless advocate for inclusion, Laurel led the effort to bring Whooosh! to life—the first universally designed playground built by a zoo and museum. Located in the gardens of CuriOdyssey, this playground is a shining example of what’s possible when thoughtfulness is built into the foundation of design. Whooosh! was inspired by Laurel’s long-standing friendship with Magical Bridge’s founder, Olenka Villarreal—two mothers of children with significant disabilities who, along with their respective boards and community partners, shared a vision of creating magical spaces for everyone to play and belong. We’re honored that she will continue to advise our team as we expand our mission to communities across the country and around the world. Laurel, thank you for your generous spirit, visionary leadership, and unwavering belief in the power of inclusive design. Learn more about the Whooosh! Playground at CuriOdyssey: https://lnkd.in/g_9ayejB