Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families Now Open

Jul. 10, 2012

The Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families will held its grand opening Friday, August 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Center, 801 University Ave. in Des Moines.

"The Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families represents a truly collaborative project with community leaders, residents and businesses rallying behind an effort that will create change, improve quality of life and have significant impact in the heart of Des Moines," says the Center's Operations Manager Marvin DeJear.  "The project leaders, community and I are incredibly enthusiastic about opening the doors and starting this important work in Central Iowa."

The Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families will mitigate unemployment, assess and improve a person's skill sets and provide educational opportunities matched with on-the-job training by delivering enhanced services and supplemental support. Visitors to the Center will receive integrated delivery of workforce services, direct placement assistance, support services, training and access to education providers all in one visit.  In the facility's work station, center employers will be able to hire a candidate, provide on-the-job training and manage a probationary employment period.  

The Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families also includes a re-engagement-to-education component to provide clients with an entry point to complete their education or obtain new skills. The creation of the Center was made possible through generous gifts and leadership provided by the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, Des Moines Area Community College, United Way of Central Iowa, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino and countless volunteer hours from the community and community-based organizations.