The public is invited to an open house from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, to view the progress of the new community center.

“We warmly welcome you to tour the first floor of this vibrant new space and learn more about what’s in store for our region,” Executive Director Barb Reisner said.

Reisner added with the community’s support to reach their $500,000 fundraising goal, it guarantees the opening of the first floor in December.

The community-led initiative is dedicated to providing enriching, inclusive and educational experiences for all ages.

The former Iron Mountain school at 301 W. Hughitt St. will soon be a local hub for creativity, learning, connection and growth as the Imagination Factory Community Center. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

“The center is built on a vision of imagination, innovation, and impact,” she said.

The former historical school building will become a hub for creativity, learning, connection and growth.

All three floors of the facility are designed to provide a place to gather and connect to enjoy a variety of activities.

The first floor will be the home of the Children’s Museum, along with a fully equipped commercial kitchen and the Gus Macker Cafe.

“A space for families and friends to gather,” Reisner said.

The second floor is being transformed into an environment specifically for those in fourth grade through age 20. They will feature curriculum rooted in the arts, technology, fitness, media and critical thinking.

“All designed to spark curiosity and empower future leaders,” she explained.

The third floor will house a public forum and additional meeting spaces, which will make it a location for community dialogue, training and system building.

Reisner added that this is only the beginning, as the new facility will also be home to afterschool programs, Saturday activities, field trips, a family resource room and family therapy center, all serving Dickinson and surrounding counties for years to come.

“We invite you to be part of this journey,” Reisner said. “Join us for an exclusive first look and discover how communities and organizations can get involved in supporting this positive force in our community.”

Attendees are asked to enter the center in the front lobby on the north side of the building at 301 W. Hughitt St. in Iron Mountain.

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Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.