Urban Dreams - Iowa

Urban Dreams - Iowa Since 1985, The Dream Team has been providing Iowa with a wide range of human service programs.

Since 1985, Urban Dreams has been providing Des Moines' inner city with a wide range of human service programs in a comfortable and non-threatening environment. Just as the problems that plague the inner city continue to evolve, Urban Dreams continue to change to meet them. Urban Dreams offers programs that are in tune with the unique issues affecting Polk County's economically depressed areas. Pr

ograms including information and referral and ex-offender support have been just two of the services that Urban Dreams offers at no cost. Founded in 1985 by Wayne Ford, Urban Dreams has become a community staple. Ford's dream was to build a program that would provide an array of human services to those who needed them most but were unable to find them through traditional channels. The philosophy behind Urban Dreams is to offer services that meet the ever-growing and constantly changing needs of our community. Urban Dreams' non-traditional model of providing human support programs has become a model for human service/community agencies helping other communities throughout Iowa and the country. Urban Dreams has served as an urban social services training ground for counselors and social workers, some of whom have gone on to start their own organizations. Urban Dreams works closely with area churches, Polk County government, area colleges and universities, and numerous other organizations and businesses mutually committed to the betterment of the community. Along with the funding and support of contributing individuals and corporations, these organizations see their participation as an investment in the future of Des Moines and the state of Iowa. "This Institution is an equal opportunity provider"

https://www.fns.usda.gov/civil-rights/usda-nondiscrimination-statement-other-fns-programs

🌟 Giving Back to Our Community! 🌟One of our incredible food pantry staff members has gone above and beyond by donating b...
03/06/2025

🌟 Giving Back to Our Community! 🌟

One of our incredible food pantry staff members has gone above and beyond by donating baby kits to support families in need! These kits, now available at our pantry, include Vitamin D, Tummy Relief, and teething drops—helping little ones stay happy and healthy.

If you or someone you know could use a baby kit, visit our pantry at 1615 2nd Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314.

We’re open Monday–Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM and ready to serve our community with care. 💙

Check out our February 2025 Newsletter! Purchase a copy of "I Don't Swim" ---> https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW13XYVQ/Purc...
03/06/2025

Check out our February 2025 Newsletter!
Purchase a copy of "I Don't Swim" ---> https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW13XYVQ/

Purchase tables/tickets for Sip for the Future --> https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sip-for-the-future-wine-flight-tickets-1253544979779?aff=oddtdtcreator

Apply to Americorps ---> https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=TXssjVoIF0aFNjinbRmw2nDoc3kcNNVFtCZuUv4RJlRUREJRQVVSRzlSMFIwS1pVTENOV1ZJVFBPUi4u

Rent the Community Center ---> https://forms.gle/RfVNRZgmAafAShACA

Subscribe to our monthly newsletter ---> https://urbandreams.dm.networkforgood.com/forms/sign-up-for-urban-dreams-newsletter

03/05/2025

In the event of inclement weather Des Moines Public Schools may do one of four things: Cancel classes at all schools but administrative and school offices remain open. Cancel classes at all schools and administrative and school offices ...

Our Executive Director, Iowa State Senator Izaah Knox, has been named one of Iowa’s 500 Most Influential Business Leader...
03/04/2025

Our Executive Director, Iowa State Senator Izaah Knox, has been named one of Iowa’s 500 Most Influential Business Leaders by the Corridor Business Journal! 🎉

This recognition highlights Izaah's unwavering dedication to empowering communities, breaking down barriers, and creating opportunities for all.

Join us in celebrating this well-deserved honor!

Last Friday, on the last day of Black History Month, we had the honor of hosting a book launch for Helen Miller and her ...
03/03/2025

Last Friday, on the last day of Black History Month, we had the honor of hosting a book launch for Helen Miller and her powerful new memoir, "I Don't Swim"!

Her story—shaped by the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing fight for equality—is one of resilience, activism, and hope.

We were joined by an incredible crowd, shared great food, and most importantly, heard inspiring words from the author herself. Helen’s journey is a testament to the power of standing up for justice and making a difference.

Congratulations, Helen, on this incredible achievement! 🎉

Grab your copy here! ---> https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW13XYVQ/
Learn more about Helen and her book here! ---> https://helenmillerauthor.com/

02/28/2025
https://reimagine.dmschools.org/how-do-i-make-my-voice-heard/
02/25/2025

https://reimagine.dmschools.org/how-do-i-make-my-voice-heard/

Reimagining Education community engagement sessions continue this week as we gather feedback about how to implement Reimagining Education. The Reimagining Education committee will review community discussions and use them to refine the proposal before bringing it to the board for consideration. Please share your thoughts by taking our online survey or attending a meeting. Click here to learn more - https://reimagine.dmschools.org/how-do-i-make-my-voice-heard/

The special book launch event for the honorable Helen Miller is this Friday!Helen’s powerful new memoir, "I Don't Swim",...
02/24/2025

The special book launch event for the honorable Helen Miller is this Friday!

Helen’s powerful new memoir, "I Don't Swim", takes us on a journey through her life, shaped by the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing fight for equality. Her story is one of resilience, activism, and hope—a must-read for anyone passionate about justice and change.

Date: Friday, February 28th, 2025
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Location: Wellmark Urban Dreams Community Center - 1615 2nd Ave. Des Moines, IA 50314

RSVP here ---> https://forms.gle/7zgLFuHk4w7UaR2E8
Buy your copy here ---> https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DW13XYVQ/

Come celebrate this inspiring moment with us, hear Helen share her story, and get your copy signed! Let’s honor the past, embrace the present, and work toward a more just future together.

Helen Miller's Book Launch - "I Don't Swim"

Our Sweetheart Dance is starting! Come visit us from 2 pm - 4 pm for a FREE afternoon of games, dancing, crafts, and mus...
02/22/2025

Our Sweetheart Dance is starting!

Come visit us from 2 pm - 4 pm for a FREE afternoon of games, dancing, crafts, and music!

Wellmark Urban Dreams Community Center - 1615 2nd Ave. Des Moines, IA 50314.

02/20/2025

Due to the forecast for extreme cold temperatures tomorrow morning when we would normally begin our school bus routes – the start of classes at Des Moines Public Schools will be delayed two hours on Thursday, February 20. ...

Congratulations to our board member, Julian Neely, for being named on Des Moines Business Record’s Forty Under 40 list! ...
02/19/2025

Congratulations to our board member, Julian Neely, for being named on Des Moines Business Record’s Forty Under 40 list! 🎉

This list recognizes 40 outstanding local leaders under 40 who have made significant career achievements and a lasting impact on their communities.

We’re proud to have Julian on our team, shaping a brighter future for Des Moines!

These 40 local business leaders, who were chosen by past award winners, are under the age of 40 and have demonstrated impressive career achievements and unparalleled community involvement.

👑 All hail Queen Sara! ❄️ Our fantastic board member, Sara Hopkins, was crowned Shiver on the River Queen!
02/18/2025

👑 All hail Queen Sara! ❄️

Our fantastic board member, Sara Hopkins, was crowned Shiver on the River Queen!

02/17/2025

Due to the forecast for extreme cold temperatures tomorrow morning when we would normally begin our school bus routes – the start of classes at Des Moines Public Schools will be delayed two hours on Tuesday, February 18. Elementary schools will start at 9:40 AM; middle schools at 10:30 AM; and high schools at 10:15 AM. There will be no morning preschool. For more information, please visit our website - https://www.dmschools.org/about/emergency-weather-closing-info/weather-closing-information/

There's still time to join us for a special book launch event for the honorable Helen Miller!Helen’s powerful new memoir...
02/17/2025

There's still time to join us for a special book launch event for the honorable Helen Miller!

Helen’s powerful new memoir, "I Don't Swim", takes us on a journey through her life, shaped by the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing fight for equality. Her story is one of resilience, activism, and hope—a must-read for anyone passionate about justice and change.

Date: Friday, February 28th, 2025
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Location: Wellmark Urban Dreams Community Center - 1615 2nd Ave. Des Moines, IA 50314

RSVP here ---> https://lnkd.in/gGSamejS
Buy your copy here ---> https://lnkd.in/g9bCzGwA

Come celebrate this inspiring moment with us, hear Helen share her story, and get your copy signed! Let’s honor the past, embrace the present, and work toward a more just future together.

Helen Miller's Book Launch - "I Don't Swim"

❤️ Happy Valentine’s Day! ❤️We hope your day is filled with love, kindness, and sweet moments! 💕Looking for a way to spr...
02/14/2025

❤️ Happy Valentine’s Day! ❤️

We hope your day is filled with love, kindness, and sweet moments! đź’•

Looking for a way to spread the love? We still need volunteers for our annual Sweetheart Dance on Saturday, February 22nd! This is a wonderful opportunity to give back and be part of a heartwarming event.

đź’Ś Sign up to volunteer here ---> https://forms.gle/gQ1bSiMKWFcJR4ah7

Thank you for helping us make this event unforgettable!

❤️ You're Invited to Our Sweetheart Dance! ❤️Join us for an afternoon of fun at our Sweetheart Dance – a FREE event for ...
02/13/2025

❤️ You're Invited to Our Sweetheart Dance! ❤️

Join us for an afternoon of fun at our Sweetheart Dance – a FREE event for all ages! Come enjoy music, dancing, food, games, and crafts with friends and family.

Date: Saturday, February 22nd
Time: 2 PM - 4 PM
Location: Wellmark Urban Dreams Community Center - 1615 2nd Ave. Des Moines, IA 50314

RSVP with the link below!

Don’t miss out on this sweet celebration!

Join us for a Valentine's Day celebration at the Wellmark Urban Dreams Community Center! Enjoy a free afternoon of music, crafts, treats, and games. Date: Saturday, February 22nd Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Please RSVP you and your guests below.

We hope everyone is staying safe and warm! The pantry is stocked and open until 5 pm today.Thank you Kwik Star, Sam's Cl...
02/12/2025

We hope everyone is staying safe and warm!

The pantry is stocked and open until 5 pm today.

Thank you Kwik Star, Sam's Club, and Whole Foods Market for our donations!

Food Pantry Hours:
Monday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday 9:00 am- 5:00 pm
Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thank you to our partners at the Food Bank of Iowa!

Located at 1615 2nd Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50314
(515) 288-4742
[email protected]

Address

1615 2nd Avenue
Des Moines, IA
50314

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+15152884742

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Urban Dreams - Iowa posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Organization

Send a message to Urban Dreams - Iowa:

Videos

Amazing karaoke night at the Urban Dreams community courtyard. Next week is the last week come, come out and support the kids.

Thank you American Heart Association Iowa American Heart Association for sending Wesley over to teach our Dream Team SYEP students life saving #HandsOnlyCPR.

Every Wednesday our SYEP Dream Team students host Summer on 6th for the community to come together & enjoy.

We are at the Des Moines Arts Festival all weekend surveying the community for their input on their Dreams for the future. Come out and support our Summer Youth Employees.

Shortcuts

Share