Des Moines is home to numerous organizations dedicated to enhancing community well-being and inclusivity. These initiatives address various needs, from housing and education to health and cultural engagement.
Invest DSM: Revitalizing Neighborhoods
Invest DSM focuses on strengthening neighborhoods through comprehensive programs that support homeowners, businesses, and developers. By offering grants for property improvements and new housing developments, Invest DSM aims to revitalize areas while preserving their unique character and supporting existing residents. Their approach emphasizes equity, ensuring that revitalization efforts benefit the entire community without displacing longtime inhabitants. Learn more about Invest DSM.
Des Moines Art Center’s Community Access Program
The Des Moines Art Center’s Community Access Program (CAP) provides meaningful art experiences by partnering with local organizations and offering free, accessible studio programming. CAP serves individuals of all ages, focusing on those facing barriers to art participation, such as economic hardship or disabilities. Programs like Art Spectrums for children and teens on the autism spectrum and gatherings for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community exemplify CAP’s commitment to inclusivity. Discover CAP’s offerings.
Dream Center Des Moines: Comprehensive Community Support
Dream Center Des Moines offers a range of services aimed at transforming the city one dream at a time. Their programs include community education, counseling services, family support, a food pantry, life coaching, a medical clinic, a pregnancy center, sports camps, and recovery programs. By addressing various aspects of community well-being, Dream Center Des Moines plays a pivotal role in supporting residents’ diverse needs. Explore Dream Center’s services.
Momentum Des Moines: Advocating for Better Urban Environments
Momentum Des Moines is a grassroots, volunteer-run organization focused on advocating for improved urban environments in the Des Moines metropolitan area. Their primary focus areas include land-use reform, enhanced public transportation, and safe street design. By promoting communities designed for all, not exclusively for personal vehicle owners, Momentum Des Moines aims to create more livable, sustainable, and accessible neighborhoods. Learn about Momentum Des Moines.
Children and Family Urban Movement (CFUM): Supporting Youth and Families
CFUM offers programs that serve the needs of children and families in Des Moines. Their initiatives include the Breakfast Club, Supper Club, The Haven After-School Enrichment, and Awesome Summer Days. These programs provide consistent, purposeful, academic-based, and experience-focused activities, ensuring children can safely enjoy educational and recreational opportunities year-round. Find out more about CFUM’s programs.
These organizations exemplify the spirit of community engagement in Des Moines, working tirelessly to create a more inclusive, supportive, and vibrant city for all residents.