History
2012
The Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families opened at 801 University Avenue in Des Moines. The Center is a partnership between the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, Des Moines Area Community College, the neighborhoods and citizens located adjacent to the project and community organizations. The Center mitigates unemployment, assesses and improves a person's skill sets and provides educational opportunities matched with on-the-job training by delivering enhanced services and support.
2011
J. Barry Griswell retires as President of the Community Foundation
and begins serving as Chief Executive Officer. Kristi Knous is promoted to President and
Chief Operating Officer.
The Community Foundation introduces a new and exciting Giving Card program to encourage giving in our community that is unique, meaningful and fun. Giving Cards can benefit any 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
The Community Foundation launches a $1 million campaign to fund the current and future needs of the Finkbine Mansion. The Finkbine Mansion has been home to the Community Foundation since 2000.
Charlotte and Fred Hubbell join the Community Foundation Leadership Circle.
2010
The Community Foundation presents its inaugural Better Together Award to The Principal Charity Classic®.
The Greater Des Moines Partnership and Community Foundation lead the
Capital Crossroads: A Vision for Greater Des Moines & Central Iowa
community visioning process to create a new five-year vision strategy
for the region.
2009
A Survey of Nonprofits and the Economy shows the importance of supporting local nonprofits in difficult economic times. The Community Foundation conducted the survey to evaluate and communicate the economy's effect on charitable giving and nonprofit sustainability.
2008
Maddie's Circle is established to honor the life and legacy of
Madelyn (Maddie) M. Levitt. These innovative giving circles inspire new
generations to make a difference through philanthropy.
Recognizing the importance of relationships established between
donors and their trusted professional advisors, the Community Foundation
creates Charitable Investment Partners. This program allows donors to
establish funds at the Community Foundation while their professional
advisors manage the assets.
To assist Iowans recovering after the floods and tornadoes statewide
in 2008, Governor Culver establishes the Embrace Iowa: 2008 Iowa
Disaster Fund, administered by the Community Foundation. Over $8
million is raised through Embrace Iowa. After ten years of serving as
president, Johnny Danos retires, and the Community Foundation welcomes
J. Barry Griswell as incoming president.
2007
The inaugural Principal Charity Classic, hosted by the Community
Foundation, delivers record crowds of golf spectators and record
contributions to local charities. The Community Foundation and Bravo
Greater Des Moines combine contributions from The Principal Charity
Classic® to create Connecting Kids and Culture, an innovative program
that funds educational field experiences for kindergarten through 5th
grade students in Polk, Dallas and Warren counties.
2006
The Leadership Circle Fund is formed by generous philanthropists who
pledge $2 million in initial and deferred gifts to address critical
community needs.
2005
The Community Foundation reaches its targeted $100 million milestone for assets under management.
The Community Foundation creates BoardLaunch to enhance the
management and leadership skills of local nonprofit board and staff
members.
2004
The LifeTown Legacy® Society is created to recognize donors leaving
planned gifts or creating permanent endowed funds. The Community
Foundation forms a statewide affiliate network to assist rural
communities and counties in taking advantage of philanthropic state
incentives. The Community Foundation provides the resources to help
fund the successful rebirth and expansion of the Cultural Alliance into
Bravo Greater Des Moines.
2003
Endow
Iowa legislation is signed into law, providing a 25% state tax credit
for certain charitable gifts given through a qualified community
foundation.
1999
Johnny Danos is elected as President.
1998
Monroe Colston retires as President.
1994
United
Way of Central Iowa moves its endowment to the Community Foundation,
providing community leadership and partnership opportunities. The
Community Foundation receives its first major unrestricted gift-a $1
million gift from John R. & Zelda Grubb.
1992
Monroe Colston is hired as the Community Foundation's first president.
1969-1992
The Community Foundation is housed in and administered by the Greater Des Moines Chamber of Commerce.
1969
The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines is founded as the Des Moines Community Foundation by a small group of citizens as "an enduring method for preserving our area's quality of life and extending its benefits to the entire community."