PRINCE GEORGE, BRITISH COLUMBIA – The Exploration Place is excited to announce a $40,000 sponsorship from Canfor Pulp in support of the new Children’s STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Gallery. This generous contribution underscores Canfor’s commitment to education, innovation, and supporting the communities in which they operate. Canfor Pulp will be joining the Y.P. Heung Foundation and the Prince George Community Foundation as supporters of this exciting project, ensuring its success and bringing it to life for the families of Prince George.
Dr. Todd Whitcombe, Board President of The Exploration Place, emphasized the importance of this contribution: “STEAM education and understanding are critically important for the future. With this very generous donation, Canfor has made a significant investment in our youth.”
The Children’s STEAM Gallery, scheduled for completion this year, will be an exciting, hands-on space designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning in kids—and anyone young at heart. Featuring stand-alone interactive exhibit fixtures, this gallery will be packed with opportunities for imaginative play. While uniquely tailored to reflect the needs and interests of our community, the gallery draws inspiration from the engaging, hands-on approach seen in spaces like Science World’s Eureka! Gallery. This new addition will bring more much-needed, engaging indoor activities for kids to Prince George while solidifying The Exploration Place as a go-to destination for family-friendly fun and learning.
Executive Director Alyssa Leier highlighted the significance of Canfor’s support: “We are incredibly grateful for this investment made by Canfor Pulp. Generous donations like this allow us to expand our offerings and reinforce our role as a community hub where science and culture meet, inspiring a lifelong love of learning.”
Canfor has been a longstanding supporter of The Exploration Place, contributing to several major projects throughout the museum’s history. During the original 2000-2001 renovation, which saw the Fraser-Fort George Regional Museum rebrand as The Exploration Place, Canfor played a pivotal role by sponsoring the Canfor Atrium, which became the Gaia Gallery during the museum’s most recent renovation. Canfor also supported The Air We Share installation, which educated young visitors about air particulates and their connection to local pulp mills. This new sponsorship builds on Canfor’s legacy of community giving.
“At Canfor, we are committed to supporting education and innovation in our community,” said Stephen Mackie, President and CEO of Canfor Pulp. “We are excited to make this investment in The Exploration Place which will create an engaging gallery space for hands on exploration of STEAM concepts for families to learn, play and discover together.”
Work on the gallery is set to begin as soon as fixtures are received. Rather than closing the gallery during the set-up process, fixtures will be added as they arrive. This phased installation ensures the community can begin engaging with the space right away, offering a sneak peek into the exciting possibilities the gallery will bring, all without interruptions or downtime.
With the support of Canfor and other community and provincial partners, The Exploration Place aims to elevate the museum’s offerings and make a lasting impact on young learners across Northern BC.
For more information about the Children’s STEAM Gallery or sponsorship opportunities, please contact The Exploration Place at info@theexplorationplace.com.
MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Alyssa Leier
Executive Director
The Exploration Place
250.981.5913
alyssa.leier@theexplorationplace.com
Mina Laudan
Vice President, Corporate Affairs
Canfor
778.990.0701
mina.laudan@canfor.com
