Better Together.
Better Forever.

Be Part of Something Bigger

Strengthen the community you love for generations to come.

A Smarter Way to Give Together: How Committee Advised Funds Strengthen Community Impact

Jul 8, 2026

Whether you’re part of a group, organization or business, people enjoy making a difference together - and it’s a reflection of collective values, culture and commitment to the community. As charitable giving becomes more intentional and collaborative, committee advised funds (CAFs) offer a strategic, flexible and efficient way to organize and give back to the causes that matter most.

A Name That Lives On

Jul 6, 2026

When Mary Lavia returned to Des Moines after more than five decades away, she wasn’t just coming back to a city – she was coming home.

GIVEdsm

We know you have a heart for giving, but with so many wonderful nonprofits in the area, staying up-to-date on the most pressing needs in our community can be a challenge. We want to make giving simple. That is why we have created GIVEdsm. GIVEdsm is an online resource that allows the opportunity to learn about the needs of our nonprofits and offer support to those that match your interests.

Connections that Count

"If you have the desire to make a difference but aren't sure how to make it happen, the Community Foundation is the perfect resource. They will take the time to understand the impact you want to achieve and set you up for success. Their research, scheduling of site visits and more has provided a personal approach to connecting with the causes we care about."

- Darcy Hathaway

Your Partner in Giving

"By partnering with the Community Foundation, we continue to learn. Whether attending an event to learn about new opportunities or participating in training for nonprofit volunteers so we can better serve the organizations we care about, the Community Foundation is more than a partner in giving; they are a partner in transforming Des Moines."

Better Together.Better Forever.