Our Impact

Discovery Space is the only non-profit science center and makerspace within a 100-mile radius of State College, PA.

We continually evolve our signature programs and outreach efforts to meet the changing needs of Central Pennsylvanians. Our educators and makerspace experts collaborate to transform classroom knowledge into real-world skills, creating a journey of lifelong learning.

Since opening in 2011, our region has shown incredible demand for our expertise and educational experiences.

We’ve responded with programs and learning opportunities to meet our community’s need.

We have designed and led

100+ weeks of STEM camps,

filling more than 2,100 camp spots.

We have engaged

60K children and families

via outreach and after-school programs.

We have hosted

210K+ visits

by children and adults from 26 PA counties.

We have facilitated

200+ internships

for students pursuing STEM and Education careers.

We have provided

58K hours

of community access to tools, classes, and technical expertise.

We have supported

170+ local businesses

through educational resources and vending opportunities.

Inspiring a love of learning across lifetimes

We envision a world where scientific and technological literacy propel a lifetime of critical thinking. Our science center and makerspace provide opportunities for families to learn together. We equip individuals of all ages with essential skills for success and the confidence to pursue their interests.

Babies, toddlers, and young kids explore exhibits, practice fine motor skills, and begin to build their science vocabulary.

Interactive exhibits support caregiver-child learning, with many built on-site through hands-on experiences for interns and students.

Five weekly Pre-K programs provide early STEM learning opportunities, free with membership or admission.

These programs foster community among caregivers while engaging young kids in hands-on science and art.

Kids ages 6-10 engage with a wide range of STEM fields and build skills through hands-on activities and camps.

STEM Summer Camps offer deep-dive learning, with scholarships ensuring access for local kids.

Field trips serve students from 11 counties, bringing hands-on science to rural communities.

Afterschool and outreach programs extend STEM learning across multiple school districts.

Pre-teens & teens ages 11-17 expand their STEM skills, begin to specialize their interests, and explore career paths.

Camps blend disciplines, helping kids turn curiosity into real-world skills and career pathways.

Youth Workshops introduce kids to makerspace skills like coding, 3D printing, and woodworking.

SPARK Internships and outreach programs like Glow and STEMpowered engage teens in STEM learning and mentorship.

Adults ages 18-64 find an escape from the daily grind, gaining knowledge and new skills alongside fellow makers, artists, and new friends.

The Rivet offers a hub for creators, fostering entrepreneurship, skill development, and community connections.

Over 1,500 tickets are sold annually for 400+ hands-on workshops and classes.

125+ local businesses benefit from Rivet resources, from workshop access to vendor opportunities.

Members, makers, and class-takers ages 65+ may find their way back to a long lost hobby or dive head first into a new one.

Older adults make up 14% of members, sharing skills and building intergenerational friendships.

OLLI and senior-living partnerships provide creative learning opportunities for retirees.

The Rivet fosters social connection, supporting mental well-being through inclusive, hands-on experiences.

Impact across Pennsylvania

Over time, we’ve engaged with people from nearly every county in the state, providing positive learning experiences for people of all ages. The counties in blue highlight those with regular engagement.

Innovation in Motion

Discovery Space and The Rivet empower individuals to explore STEM, innovate boldly, and create solutions and businesses that shape their futures.

Test Impact Story

TBD Call to Action

Button