Inclusion in Greater Des Moines
Greater Des Moines (DSM) values being a welcoming community for all. DSM has the fastest-growing foreign-born population in the Midwest and is second in the United States, according to Heartland Forward. DSM’s minority population grew by 93% between 2010 to 2020, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Inclusion in DSM is reflected not only in data, but in the people, organizations and events that bring the community together.
From collaborative initiatives to employers that champion inclusive strategies, the DSM community is committed to learning, growing and building a community that welcomes and champions all individuals.
Organizations in Greater Des Moines
A strong network of DSM organizations are dedicated to advancing and promoting inclusive strategies as well as supporting individuals in underrepresented communities. Browse this list and learn more about how these organizations support DSM-ers and lead in creating a more equitable and inclusive community:
Capital City Pride brings together the members of the LGBTQ+ community along with their friends, allies and supporters and produces many cultural and educational events, including the annual Pride Fest.
Easterseals Iowa is leading the way to full equity, inclusion and access through life-changing disability and community services and provides programs and services for all ages and life stages.
The Director’s Council is a coalition of Black CEOs and executive leaders in DSM that seeks to improve conditions for individuals in the neighborhoods they serve. The Director’s Council leads many programs, including the African American Leadership Academy and One Economy.
The Harkin Institute connects people with policy. Located at Drake University, The Institute serves as a venue and catalyst for dynamic non-partisan research, learning and outreach to promote understanding of the policy issues to which Senator Tom Harkin devoted his career, including policies that support people with disabilities.
Iowa Asian Alliance unites diverse Asian, Asian American and Pacific Islander communities with the purpose of fostering economic growth and broader community development within the state of Iowa. The Alliance works to promote business and economic growth, community and cultural vitality, leadership and educational advancement, and civic responsibility and engagement
Latino Center of Iowa is a place where the Latino community can unite, develop leadership and share its culture and heritage. It promotes culture and develops leadership and connections for the future of the Latino community and Central Iowa.
LadyLike inspires and empowers Black and African women in DSM and uses various facets to connect with women in efforts to fuel their desired commitment to the community while elevating local Black women talent and addressing the racial wealth gap through training, mentoring and entrepreneur support.
Lutheran Services in Iowa serves the community in many ways, including within the immigrant and refugee community.
One Iowa advances, empowers and improves the lives of LGBTQ Iowans statewide. Their work includes education, training for healthcare professionals, law enforcement, leaders and others, advocacy for policies that protect the civil rights, health, and safety of LGBTQ Iowans, and cultivating LGBTQ leaders.
United League is a network of motivated donors who identify as Black or as allies, who are eager to address disparities in economic opportunity through volunteerism and advocacy. It is part of United Way of Central Iowa.
Urban Dreams advocates for all members of the community, breaking down barriers to success and collaborating with key stakeholders to overcome obstacles and uplift underserved and underrepresented people. The organization provides numerous services and supports, job training and outpatient substance abuse treatment, among other vital supports.
Additionally, numerous cities including Ankeny, Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines have civil rights commissions that work to advance inclusion within their city.
Inclusion Events in Greater Des Moines
Events throughout the year provide opportunities for education, discussion and cultural celebration.
The Partnership’s Regional Summit programming includes an Inclusive Talent Track that focuses on advancing workforce and workplace practices across DSM. The Athene Black & Brown Business Summit elevates diverse entrepreneurs and business leaders and brings BIPOC businesses together to assist with connection building, programming, promotion, training and to provide resources to help businesses grow and prosper.
Cultural celebrations like CelebrAsian, Latino Heritage Festival, Pride Fest and World Food & Music Festival are can’t-miss community events that offer diverse flavors, art, music and opportunities to connect.