Executive

KristiKnousCAP®, MPA

President

Kristi Knous has been part of the Community Foundation team since 2002 and has served as President since 2011, leading one of the nation’s largest community foundations, overseeing more than $1 billion in assets and over 2,700 charitable funds.

Kristi provides strategic vision for the Community Foundation’s role as a civic leader, grantmaker and philanthropic partner, working with donors and community leaders to address critical issues and create lasting impact across Greater Des Moines. Nationally, she is active in advancing the field of philanthropy through leadership roles with CEONet and the Council on Foundations.

 An Iowa native, Kristi is a graduate of Iowa State University and earned a Master of Public Administration and Certificate in Business Management from Drake University. She is also a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®). 

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines?

I LOVE to have a nice dinner downtown and then roam the streets exploring ALL of the wonderful things happening in DSM. I can't possibly pick one! Des Moines: the S's are silent, our city is booming!

Affiliate Relations

JaceyRoy

Affiliate Relations Associate

Jacey works to promote charitable giving through the Community Foundation’s Affiliate program. She partners with affiliates, providing coaching, training and support to help them advance local priorities, engage donors and achieve their community and county-wide goals.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

I love the variety of activities, restaurants, shops, and people this community has to offer. It easily became home, and I look forward to continuing to try new things and meet new people within our community!

MakailaHootman

Affiliate Relations Associate

Makaila supports the Community Foundation’s Affiliate program by helping grow charitable giving and strengthen local impact. She provides guidance, training and support to help Affiliates build capacity, engage donors and advance their community and county-wide goals.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

I am new to Des Moines following my graduation from Grinnell College, located just an hour east of the metro area. So far, I have enjoyed checking out local businesses and taking walks around town.

BarbHobson

Senior Executive Assistant and Events Coordinator

Barb coordinates Community Foundation events, nonprofit trainings, educational programming and connection opportunities. She also provides administrative support to the Community Foundation’s marketing and affiliate teams.

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines?

I love riding my bike around Easter Lake and renting a paddleboard on a warm Sunday afternoon. 

Charitable Giving

LynneYontzCAP®

Chief Charitable Giving Officer

Lynne leads the Community Foundation’s Charitable Giving team and serves on the leadership team, helping advance the organization’s strategic goals through donor engagement and philanthropic planning. She works closely with individuals, families and professional advisors to establish charitable funds, facilitate legacy gifts and structure complex charitable giving strategies.  

Lynne is a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® (CAP®), providing expertise in strategic charitable planning for individuals and organizations. She is also a 21/64 Certified Advisor, specializing in facilitating meaningful conversations with individuals and multigenerational families to help align charitable giving with their values and goals. Lynne received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Northern Iowa.   

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

One of my favorite things about Greater Des Moines is the accessibility to so many high-quality, live music opportunities.

RyanDouglasCAP®

Senior Director of Gift Planning and Advisor Relations

Ryan leads the Community Foundation’s engagement with professional advisors across Greater Des Moines and throughout Iowa, including support for the 46 county & community affiliates. He oversees the Charitable Investment Partners program and Professional Advisors Council, serves as a charitable giving resource for professional advisors and their clients and builds relationships with prospective and current fund holders.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

One of my favorite parts of Des Moines is the strong sense of community among the population and its willingness to help each other.

SarahRamseyPhD

Senior Director of Donor Engagement

Sarah leads donor engagement for the Community Foundation, building relationships with current fund holders and helping connect them with meaningful charitable giving opportunities. She works across the organization to elevate the donor experience and strengthen the Community Foundation’s charitable giving services.

Sarah is a 21/64 Certified Advisor, specializing in facilitating conversations with individuals and multigenerational families to align charitable giving with their values and goals. 

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

My favorite part about Greater Des Moines is the kind and generous spirit of our community!

PatrickNewstrom

Director of Gift Planning and Advisor Relations

Patrick works with current and prospective fund holders, helping them achieve their charitable giving goals. He also works closely with professional advisors, including financial, tax and estate planning professionals, to support customized charitable giving solutions.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

My favorite part of Greater Des Moines is all the amenities that it offers as a larger city, but with a small-town vibe. My family and I love to go to festivals, live music, sporting events, cultural events, spending time in nature and of course, all the wonderful restaurants/diverse cuisine it offers as well.

KatiDray

Senior Charitable Giving Advisor

Kati works with current fund holders, nonprofit organizations and prospective donors to inspire greater giving and strengthen communities. She builds meaningful relationships, provides philanthropic guidance and helps connect donors with opportunities that make a lasting impact.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

I love that Des Moines has a small-town friendly vibe combined with big city features. Personally, riding the bike trails, exploring our state parks or checking out the newest brewery/restaurant are some of my favorite things to do.

PeytonHaas-Bagley

Charitable Giving Associate

Peyton provides project management and coordination for the Community Foundation’s Charitable Giving team. She supports prospective donors, current fund holders and professional advisors, helps coordinate events and communications and leads engagement with Seed Fund holders and nonprofit fund partners.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

My favorite part of Des Moines is that there’s always something new to do. I can always find new events in the area and love finding new restaurants to try.

JennyMcCloud

Charitable Giving Coordinator

Jenny supports prospective and current fund holders in achieving their charitable giving goals. As a member of the Charitable Giving team, she provides efficient, donor-centered service and helps ensure a seamless giving experience.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

I am new to the Des Moines area and I am looking forward to getting out on the bike trails to see all of the beautiful scenery.

La-TicaPaige

Executive Assistant

La-Tica provides administrative support for the Community Foundation’s Community Impact and Charitable Giving teams. She supports committees, coordinates day-to-day operations and helps ensure programs, initiatives and services are delivered efficiently.

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines? 

I am originally from Louisiana, and I have lived in the Greater Des Moines area a few times, most recently returning in 2017.

Community Impact

AngelaDethlefs-Trettin,MA

Chief Community Impact Officer

Angie leads the Community Foundation’s grantmaking programs, impact investing and nonprofit sector strengthening initiatives. She is actively engaged in key community leadership initiatives, assists in identifying critical community needs and building networks of community stakeholders to advance solutions that create lasting impact across Greater Des Moines.

As a member of the Community Foundation’s leadership team, Angie plays a key role in guiding strategy and supporting the work of the Grantmaking, Impact Investing and Community Leadership Initiatives Committees. She holds a Certificate of Nonprofit Board Education from BoardSource and earned a Master of Arts in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Development at the University of Northern Iowa.

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines?

I like to hit the bike trail and head over to Water Works Park to see an outdoor concert or show! Being able to connect to the loop around Gray's Lake (and a stop for a quick beverage) makes for a GREAT afternoon in Greater Des Moines.

EllieBurnsEdD

Senior Director of Nonprofit Relations

Ellie works with nonprofit organizations to connect them with valuable tools and support available through the Community Foundation, as well as other community resources.  She creates opportunities for nonprofit leaders to connect and learn through training programs, and works closely with nonprofit board and staff members, grantmakers and community partners to support the overall health and well-being of Greater Des Moines. Ellie also oversees the Community Foundation's Capacity Building and Strategic Alignment Grant programs.

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines?

I love to go for runs or walks around Gray's Lake in the morning and then grab a coffee and treat from one of my favorite coffee shops!

DanniePatrick-Valentin

Senior Director of Community Impact

Dannie works closely with nonprofit leaders, grantmakers and community partners to advance regional priorities and implement effective solutions that strengthen Greater Des Moines. She manages the Impact Investing program, as well as the Leadership Grant program, while elevating priorities of the Community Foundation to organizations seeking to make a significant impact across the community.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

My favorite part of the community is that while Des Moines may be smaller than some larger cities in the Midwest there is truly opportunity to make change happen. 

SarahCahillMA

Community Impact Associate

Sarah provides project management and operational leadership for the Community Foundation’s grantmaking programs, including nonprofit applicant support and internal procedures. She also administers nonprofit capacity building initiatives, as well as the Community Foundation’s leadership engagement throughout Greater Des Moines. 

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

I love the friendliness and genuineness of the people in Des Moines and that there are so many activities and events that are easily accessible.

La-TicaPaige

Executive Assistant

La-Tica provides administrative support for the Community Foundation’s Community Impact and Charitable Giving teams. She supports committees, coordinates day-to-day operations and helps ensure programs, initiatives and services are delivered efficiently.

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines? 

I am originally from Louisiana, and I have lived in the Greater Des Moines area a few times, most recently returning in 2017.

Finance

KrisPete-Swanson

Chief Financial Officer

Kris leads the Community Foundation’s financial operations, ensuring strong stewardship, transparency and long-term financial sustainability. She oversees accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, fund administration and investment oversight, working closely with organizational leadership to support the Community Foundation’s mission and strategic priorities.

As a member of the leadership team, Kris partners with staff, board members and committees to help ensure the Community Foundation’s charitable resources are managed responsibly and effectively to support the organization’s priorities today and into the future. Kris earned a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Briar Cliff University and holds a Certificate of Nonprofit Accounting through the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines?

I love hitting one of the many bike paths and finishing up the ride with a visit to a local brewery.

ShannaBearsCNAP, MSA

Senior Director of Accounting

Shanna oversees the Community Foundation’s Nonprofit Accounting Services (NAS) program, departmental internal audit functions and fund holder reporting. She works closely with nonprofit partners and Community Foundation staff to strengthen financial practices and ensure accurate financial and accounting information.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

One of my favorite things about Greater Des Moines is the variety of restaurants and shops in the area. I love supporting local businesses and there is such a variety of locally owned restaurants and shops in the downtown area that I could never get bored!

ElizabethCorbett

Senior Director of Accounting

Elizabeth oversees the accounting, cash flow and valuation of investment activity for the Community Foundation and Charitable Investment Partner program. She is responsible for maintaining, monitoring and reporting financial and investment information to ensure accurate financial reporting and responsible stewardship of charitable assets.

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines?

One of my favorite things to do in Des Moines is spend the day biking with family and friends. There are so many great trails with fun restaurants and breweries popping up alongside them. It makes for the perfect summer/fall day!

KristinDe JongCNAP

Accountant

Kristin manages the accounting, cash flow and valuation of investment activity for the Community Foundation and Charitable Investment Partner program. She is responsible for financial activities and reporting of the Affiliate program while maintaining, monitoring and reporting financial and investment information to ensure accuracy and responsible stewardship of charitable assets.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

I’ve lived in Iowa my whole life, but I’ve been in the metro since 2019. What I love most about this community is the variety of restaurants, fun local events and all the great outdoor spots for walking and getting outside.

KathyKhattiyaMBA

Accountant

Kathy manages the Community Foundation’s Nonprofit Accounting Service (NAS) program and nonprofit clients. She is responsible for maintaining, monitoring and reporting client financial and accounting information in accordance with established policies and procedures. 

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

My favorite part of this community is seeing how fast it is growing and exploring new things as they come!

DawnNguyen

Senior Accounting Associate

Dawn supports the accounting and financial operations of the Community Foundation. She assists with the day-to-day accounting and financial operations, processing accounts payable, charitable grants and grants payable, and related reporting and to ensure charitable funds are distributed accurately and stewarded effectively.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

I moved back from Dallas, Texas almost two years ago and I’m loving it! The best part is the friendly people and how safe it feels.

TammyCrotts

Senior Finance Associate

Tammy supports the Community Foundation’s accounting and financial operations. She assists with the day-to-day finance and fund administration responsibilities, including deposits, gift acknowledgements, Endow Iowa Tax Credit applications and cash management.

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines?

I enjoy the many activities Des Moines has to offer.

ChelsyZahnd

Senior Executive Assistant & C3 Center Coordinator

Chelsy provides executive and administrative support to the Community Foundation president, chief financial officer, vice president of administration, board, assigned committees and the finance department. She also coordinates operations for the C3 Center, helping ensure meetings, events and organizational activities run smoothly.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

I love the big, yet small town feel of the community and how incredibly diverse we are!

JoshWright

Accounting Associate

Josh supports the accounting and financial operations of the Community Foundation. He assists with the day-to-day accounting and financial operations, processing charitable contributions and contributions receivable, and related reporting to ensure donor intent is honored and charitable gifts are stewarded effectively.

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines? 

My favorite part of this community is having the amenities of a city (sports, shopping, dining and festivals) and how easily you can get around the metro.  At the same time, you can get away into nature and find great hiking and biking trails.

Marketing

EmilyToribioMPA

Chief Marketing Officer

Emily leads the Community Foundation's marketing and communications efforts, advancing the organization's strategic goals through storytelling, community engagement and strategic communications. She works across the organization to strengthen relationships and inspire generosity through the impact of charitable giving.

Emily serves as a member of the leadership team. She received her Master of Public Administration from Drake University in Nonprofit Management.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines? 

The people. Their authenticity, kindness and caring spirit are what make Greater Des Moines such a special place to call home. I’m grateful for the way our community continually shows up to make it better.

BetsyDe Glopper

Director of Marketing

Betsy shares the Community Foundation's mission and impact through digital communications, multimedia storytelling and strategic content. She creates engaging experiences across platforms that help build understanding, strengthen relationships and inspire charitable giving.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

I love the variety of events and activities in Greater Des Moines. On any given day you can experience a festival, take in a baseball game, explore a park, watch the latest Broadway hit, and more. There's something for everyone!

JuliaJennings

Marketing Associate

Julia amplifies the story of the Community Foundation through varied marketing mediums and across multiple audience segments. She helps move audiences from awareness to understanding, inspiring greater engagement through charitable giving and community impact.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

My favorite part of Des Moines is all the different festivals, concerts, fairs and events there are to go to.

BarbHobson

Senior Executive Assistant and Events Coordinator

Barb coordinates Community Foundation events, nonprofit trainings, educational programming and connection opportunities. She also provides administrative support to the Community Foundation’s marketing and affiliate teams.

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines?

I love riding my bike around Easter Lake and renting a paddleboard on a warm Sunday afternoon. 

Administration

KatherineRiley HarringtonMSHR

Vice President of Administration

Katherine leads the Community Foundation's administrative operations and serves on the leadership team, helping advance the organization's strategic goals through operational excellence. She oversees human resources, facilities, technology, risk management and administrative operations, ensuring the systems, processes and partnerships that support the Community Foundation's mission are effective, efficient and sustainable.

Katherine holds a Master’s in Human Resources Management (MSHR) from Loyola University of Chicago.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

I’m a 5th generation Des Moines resident and I love how we keep evolving – while I miss some things from the past, I’m always inspired by new things that are happening!

MarkBenson

Systems Analyst

Mark supports the Community Foundation's donors, fund holders and staff by managing the organization's data, technology systems and financial information. He helps ensure the accuracy, consistency and integrity of the information and systems that support the Community Foundation's work.

What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?

I love all of the music venues, trails, restaurants and breweries. My favorite thing about Des Moines is the vibrant downtown with all of the great things to do and see.

BarbHobson

Senior Executive Assistant and Events Coordinator

Barb coordinates Community Foundation events, nonprofit trainings, educational programming and connection opportunities. She also provides administrative support to the Community Foundation’s marketing and affiliate teams.

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines?

I love riding my bike around Easter Lake and renting a paddleboard on a warm Sunday afternoon. 

ChelsyZahnd

Senior Executive Assistant & C3 Center Coordinator

Chelsy provides executive and administrative support to the Community Foundation president, chief financial officer, vice president of administration, board, assigned committees and the finance department. She also coordinates operations for the C3 Center, helping ensure meetings, events and organizational activities run smoothly.
 
What is one of your favorite things about Greater Des Moines?
I love the big, yet small town feel of the community and how incredibly diverse we are!

La-TicaPaige

Executive Assistant

La-Tica provides administrative support for the Community Foundation’s Community Impact and Charitable Giving teams. She supports committees, coordinates day-to-day operations and helps ensure programs, initiatives and services are delivered efficiently.

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines? 

I am originally from Louisiana, and I have lived in the Greater Des Moines area a few times, most recently returning in 2017.

JeorginaHernandez

Receptionist

Jeorgina welcomes guests to the Finkbine and provides administrative support to Community Foundation staff. She also assists with facility operations and special projects, helping create a welcoming and well-supported experience for visitors, partners and colleagues.

What is one of your favorite things to do in Greater Des Moines? 

My favorite part of Des Moines is the summer events downtown the farmers market mainly and walking around the sculpture park.

Gift Planning Counsel

JohniHays

Gift Planning Consultant with Thompson Associates

Johni specializes in charitable estate planning, bequests, charitable gift annuities and nonprofit law at Thompson & Associates.

Legal Counsel

WayneReames

Attorney with Belin McCormick, P.C.

Wayne is a shareholder at Belin McCormick, P.C. and his practice emphasizes taxation, tax controversy, trusts and estates, nonprofit organizations and charitable giving and corporate law.