WDM Community Enrichment Foundation

The WDM Community Enrichment Foundation was incorporated in April of this year thanks to the efforts of elected officials and community leaders. The Foundation is an affiliate of the Greater Des Moines Community Foundation and therefore a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. It's mission is:

"To preserve and improve the quality of life in West Des Moines by engaging others in philanthropic support and services."

In early December the City Council approved a contribution to the Foundation of $20,000 for materials, fund raising activities, and grant-making. This contribution was issued with a requirement that the Foundation raise an additional $20,000 from other sources by February 29, 2008. The Foundation noted at that Council Meeting that they hope to raise even more than the $20,000 requirement by the end of February.

This independent body will focus on charitable giving capable of benefiting the entire city. In addition to contributing to community projects and programs, the Community Foundation will be able to raise and receive funds for specific capital campaign projects that need private sector contributions in order to be realized.

I'd like to congratulate our elected officials and community leaders on taking the initiative on this project and seeing to fruition a concept that will truly enhance quality of life in West Des Moines. Congrats and good luck to the current Foundation board members who will be pioneers of organized community giving in West Des Moines!