Junior League of Wichita Celebrates 100 Years with $2 Million Gift to Exploration Place Innovative Water Play Cascades Will Promote Teamwork and Collaboration

In honor of its 100th anniversary in 2025, the Junior League of Wichita has raised an extraordinary $2 million gift to fund the creation of the Water Play Cascades, a centerpiece of Exploration Place's planned outdoor expansion.

The Junior League of Wichita Water Play Cascades will offer an incredible multisensory learning experience promoting teamwork and collaboration. Many of the pumps and water wheels must be activated by children and adults working together to achieve their full effect, providing an engaging and educational environment for visitors of all ages.

Designed by Hoerr Schaudt Landscape Architects and Fluidity Design Consultants using equipment manufactured by Richter Spielgerate, the Water Play Cascades will be part of Exploration Place's “destination playscape” – a $25 million project spanning 6.5 acres and comprising 10 beautifully landscaped individual playgrounds.

“We are thrilled to celebrate our centennial by giving this extraordinary gift to the community,” said Ami Schlader, president of the League. “The Water Play Cascades exemplify our commitment to advancing women's leadership and fostering meaningful community impact through collaborative action.”

Longtime Junior League of Wichita members Cindy Carnahan and Lynn Ward led the fundraising campaign. The $2 million gift is comprised of donations from more than 200 individuals and other entities to date.

“We deeply appreciate this exceptional investment by Junior League of Wichita,” said Adam Smith, Exploration Place's president and CEO. “We know how popular water play is from our indoor exhibits, and we can't wait for our families to work together in such a fun and creative environment.”