Meet DSM: Monica Goodlett

When lifetime Greater Des Moines (DSM) resident Monica Goodlett took a trip to Charleston, West Virginia, as a travel nurse she didn’t expect to fall in love with the outdoors. But, when a local told her about the beautiful view of the New River Gorge Bridge accessible through a hike, she decided it was time to challenge herself and brave the hiking trail. 

“It was quite the journey for somebody that had never hiked before.” Monica admitted. What originally had been planned as a two-mile hike turned into three miles, with the path continuously narrowing. But Monica powered through with the goal of seeing the bridge – and she did. “Seeing the bridge was my aha moment,” Monica explained. “That’s where I realized the benefit of spending time outside and hiking.”  

Upon returning to DSM, Monica began exploring the local trails but wanted to enjoy the outdoors with others. She started looking for outdoor community groups, but nothing quite fit what she was looking for. In the meantime, Monica enrolled in the African-American Leadership Academy where she focused on leadership development. Through the academy, she realized that she wanted to be part of the solution for improving the health of African-Americans in Iowa. In April 2024, Monica founded Black Iowa Outdoors, a community group focused on promoting physical activity and outdoor engagement. 

Every month, Black Iowa Outdoors has a hike planned open to anyone who wants to join. “People are better when they get outside,” Monica shared, “I can tell when I’ve gone too long without being outside now, and it impacts you mentally.” Monica hopes the group will continue to grow and that includes trying out other activities that will help the group expand their interests.  

Monica makes it a point to hit the trails by herself once a week looking to scout potential spots for Black Iowa Outdoors to explore in the future and to get her dose of outdoors in. When she’s not on the hunt for something new, you may find her at Fort Des Moines Park which features three trails. For a change of pace and a bit more distance from the city, Monica heads to Jester Park.  

One of Monica’s biggest takeaways is the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone. “I want to encourage people to start living life outside of the boundaries they’ve learned.” For Monica, hiking in West Virginia was her first step outside the box – and from it, she’s gained a community right here in DSM.