Today we’d like to introduce you to Mandy Volpe.
Mandy, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
INK was founded in 2002 by Sheri Hooper after she saw a void in the local community for educational opportunities for young families. She started the concept as a bible study in her basement with other mothers and then it turned into a children’s museum off the square in downtown Gainesville. The museum outgrew the space and moved to the Featherbone Communiversity where it is now located with 25,000 sq feet. INK offers field trips, general admission, memberships, birthday parties, and a Gift Shop. We have plans to expand in the next year to a 35,000 sq ft building on the corner of South Hall and Buford.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Creating something new always has its challenges. Sheri, our founder, was a visionary and truly created the museum from the ground up. She sought donors and contributors and developed the concept. By the grace of God, contributions came in when unexpected bills presented themselves or in-kind donations arrived if exhibit items needed improvements.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK) – what should we know?
Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, Inc. (INK) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in scenic Gainesville, Georgia. We are a short drive from Atlanta, Chattanooga, Greenville and other major southeastern cities. Our mission is to encourage children of all ages to develop their full potential through exciting hands-on learning. INK strives, through the exhibits of our Museum, to create a unique environment in which children of all ages, abilities, and experience can feel free to imagine, create and explore beyond their dreams.
We just celebrated 15 years.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Trust in God’s provision, creativity, leadership.
Pricing:
- 8.00 per person
- under 2 free
- $99 memberships
Contact Info:
- Address: 999 Chestnut Street SE #11
- Website: inkfun.org
- Phone: 7705361900
- Email: info@inkfun.org
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/INKforKIDS
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/INKFUN
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/user/inkfunga
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