Pacific Science Center’s plan during pandemic

SEATTLE — The COVID-19 pandemic is spurring creativity at Seattle’s Pacific Science Center.

The nonprofit is finding new ways to make its programming accessible with minimal operating staff. Its live science shows stream online now, giving people access to the Pacific Science Center anytime and anywhere.

“One of the prompts that happens with something like a pandemic is it forces you to be innovative,” said Diana Johns, vice president of Exhibits & Life Sciences.

The temporary closure forced the organization to immediately pivot and transform its model. This meant going virtual with programming to educate and inspire the community both live and on demand.

“How can we use technology creatively that still gives people that same sense of hands-on,” Johns said.

But in order to maintain its mission during the coronavirus pandemic, the organization was forced to lay off 90% of its staff. And since ticket sales make up 74% of its revenue, it is relying heavily on donations.

“If you like what we are doing, we welcome your support,” Johns said.

There’s no clear date on when the Pacific Science Center will reopen. Leaders are finalizing a plan that will comply with health guidelines to keep everyone safe. This includes summer programs, which will be a mix of in-person and virtual camps.

“(We’re) really challenging ourselves with how to serve the community, bring that spirit of curiosity and inspiration to something like virtual camps,” Johns said.

The nonprofit is also reaching a bigger audience with its virtual content, enabling staff to engage curious minds all over the world.

“Going into the future, there will be an online component in everything we do because we see the value in that,” said Johns said.

All of the Pacific Science Center’s online content is free to access. Registration for its summer camp will open June 10. To support the Pacific Science Center or learn more about online programming, visit its website: https://www.pacificsciencecenter.org/support/

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