What if getting around your community could be easier, faster, and more connected? At this year’s “What If?” Challenge Kick-Off, young innovators and their families came together for a day of imagination, hands-on learning, and big ideas – all centered on reimagining the future of transportation and mobility.
The event officially launched the “What If?” Challenge 2026, inviting young people to ask, “What if you could redesign how people get around your community? What would you create to make it easier, faster, or bring people closer together?” From flying buses to glowing bike paths and trains connecting every neighborhood, participants were encouraged to think creatively about the possibilities and envision solutions that could make a difference in their communities.
Throughout the day, families explored interactive experiences across three zones. The Discovery Zone offered a sweet treat with ice cream, while the Building Zone brought ideas to life through video games, LEGOs, and Magna-Tiles. In the Learning Zone, participants discovered the 2026 challenge and explored transportation and mobility with the Florida Department of Transportation.
Most importantly, community support helped make this experience accessible to young learners. Donations helped cover the cost of participation, allowing children to attend for free and take part in a day filled with creativity, exploration, and discovery. By removing financial barriers, these contributions helped ensure more young people could access meaningful learning experiences, explore new interests, and feel empowered to share their ideas for the future.
The Kick-Off was more than a fun-filled family day. It was an opportunity to spark curiosity, encourage problem-solving, and remind young people that their ideas matter. With the support of our community, we’re helping the next generation imagine new possibilities, think boldly, and create a future where getting from one place to another brings people closer together.
Thank you to everyone whose generosity helped make this day possible. Your support helps turn curiosity into opportunity—and big ideas into the beginnings of real-world change.
Real Moments, Real Voices.
This event is made possible by the generosity of our sponsors and community partners.
Special thanks to our Curiosity Circle for their ongoing support of The Center’s annual programming.
