As companies and individuals embark or continue on their journey, this program’s goals are to help amplify businesses and people doing meaningful work for others. The purpose is to learn from and to also elevate those who have created inclusive work environments through their workforce, supplier programs, employee development initiatives, community efforts, and more.
Reignite Community has been a community-fueled event since 2021, and it has been recognized nationally for its impact. Check out the highlight video from last year’s event. With a room full of 300+ people from all walks of life celebrating its importance, we celebrate the work that’s been done and recognize the importance of continued progress by and for ALL individuals in our community.Â
This event intentionally revolves around four pillars: educate, elevate, celebrate, and motivate. This is all about action and impact. With over 140 applications in the first four years, we can’t wait to see that increase in the future as we learn from each other and put in the work.Â
This is all made possible thanks to the Committee, our partners, and our sponsors.
Congratulations to this year’s award recipients in the following categories:
Government:Â Mazahir Salih
Student:Â Isaiah Poe
Inclusion Initiative:Â OneVoice DSM
Leader:Â Will Keeps
Emerging Leader:Â Val Veiock
Large Business:Â Holmes Murphy
Small Business:Â Professional Contrarian
Nonprofit: The Beacon and Lutheran Services in Iowa (two recipients)
Learn more about their work and why they were selected by joining us at the event on October 22.Â
Registration for Reignite CommUNITY is now open! The event this year will be on October 22 at the Des Moines Botanical Gardens. The event will take place from 5-7PM, and include engaging activities, entertainment, and recognition for award recipients!Â
In the meantime, enjoy these photos from past years to get excited about what’s ahead for our fifth year.
One way we further the impact of this program is through a local donation. A portion of the sponsorship proceeds is donated to the recipient of the Nonprofit award category.Â
Previous donation recipients include Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa, CultureALL, Latina Leadership Initiative, Can Play, and Polk County Housing Trust Fund.
Additionally, there are two scholarships granted each year. One $2000 scholarship is given to the Student Leader award recipient to support their future education. The other scholarship supports the Emerging Leader award recipient being able to participate in the WDM Leadership Academy.Â
2025 EDUCATION PARTNER
Project Iowa provides transformational programs for individuals that are looking to grow personally and professionally. Their holistic training approach connects individuals to their purpose and to meaningful, stable employment. They collaborate with community partners and employers to facilitate connections to a confident and skilled workforce. “At Project Iowa we know that when individuals succeed, the whole community benefits.” Join us at the event to learn more about the impactful work they do and why they were selected as this year’s Education Partner.Â
SCHOLARSHIP SPONSOR
GOLD SPONSOR
CHAMPION SPONSORS
SUPPORTING SPONSOR
Award Sponsor
Video Sponsor
Nominations have now closed! The nomination window was April 29 – June 6.Â
You can nominate yourself, your business, or another community individual or organization to be considered for the awards. Everyone is welcome to apply and attend this impactful commUNITY event!
Nominations will be judged on the following criteria:
The application is an opportunity to showcase the impactful work being done to create a welcoming and inclusive community (or state) for all. One supporting document may also be included such as a letter of recommendation, media created to highlight the efforts, etc. Individuals and businesses who apply must be located in the state of Iowa.Â
Questions? Contact the Application Team.Â
10 CategoriesÂ
Small Business: 1 – 49 EmployeesÂ
Medium Business: 50-249 EmployeesÂ
Large Business: 250+ EmployeesÂ
Nonprofit
Government
Education SectorÂ
Leader of the Year: age 40+Â
Emerging Leader of the Year: 39 & Under
Student Leader of the Year
Best Inclusion Initiative
Want to show your support for this program? Contact Kara Matheson, VP of Workforce Development & Culture, to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.Â
Our vision is to make West Des Moines the best suburban city in America to live, work and play—for everyone. Now is the time to show pride in our vibrant community and state. We look forward to you being involved in Reignite CommUNITY!Â
This statement was created in 2023 by the WDM Chamber’s Community Impact & Engagement Committee.Â
“At the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, we champion the impact and engagement of our community as a fundamental value. We strive for love and positivity in all that we do, embracing the rich tapestry of humanity within our community. We believe that belonging is the key to our shared success, and we extend a warm welcome to all.“
