Community Difference Makers

Sara Kurovski, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish Iowa joins the podcast to talk about how the organization provides hope, joy and strength to kids at a time they need it most. 

This week, Shannon Cofield, president of the MercyOne Des Moines Foundation, talks with Emily about the philanthropic arm of MercyOne, including the recently completed Richard Deming Cancer Center, the popular Game Show Gala and more.

Urban Dreams Executive Director and Bankers Trust Community Board Member Izaah Knox joins the podcast this week to talk about his organization's mission to break down barriers within the community, how a walk home led to his current role and his vision for Urban Dreams. 

This week on Community Difference Makers, David Kilpatrick, executive director of the Des Moines Community Playhouse, talks with Emily about the human connections fostered by community theatre and how The Playhouse is enriching lives for people of all ages.

Oakridge Neighborhood President and CEO Teree Caldwell-Johnson joins the podcast today to talk about her 18-year journey with Oakridge and the great impact this organization has on the individuals and families it serves. 

In our second Quick Community Insights, Emily walks through everything you need to know about joining a board, including how to get started and what to expect.

Mary Sellers, president of United Way of Central Iowa, and Emily discuss UWCI's updated strategic focus, United to Thrive and how it has helped the organization reflect and respond to the needs within our Central Iowa community.

Bravo Greater Des Moines Executive Director Sally Dix joins host Emily Abbas this week. Sally talks about Bravo's mission and shares how the organization was formed and how it's funded - with some facts that may surprise to listeners!

Kristi Knous, president of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, joins Bankers Trust Chief Consumer Banking and Marketing Officer Emily Abbas and discusses her path to nonprofit work and the partnerships the Community Foundation leverages to help build a stronger community.

Host Emily Abbas shares quick insights on why you might want to start volunteering in the community, how to get started and what you can expect in different types of volunteer roles.