Community-Based Programs

CYC facilitates several programs that are open to youth throughout the community. Community-based programs often meet at our office on MLK and welcome students throughout the metro. In addition to DMPS students, we've been joined by participants attending school in West Des Moines, Waukee, Urbandale, Dallas-Center Grimes, Southeast Polk, and Johnston.

uVoice Youth Philanthropy Board

Founded in 2013 with support from the Mid-Iowa Health Foundation, uVoice: Youth Philanthropy Board is a group of up to 15 Polk County high school students who address youth public health issues through grantmaking and service learning. Each year, members develop and review grant applications, funding organizations that tackle identified problems, while building leadership skills, friendships, and a passion for philanthropy.

Garden Club

CYC offers a unique youth program that integrates STEM-based learning with community service through our Community Garden Club. This year-long program meets monthly during winter and spring, and more frequently in the summer. During the colder months, participants engage in planning the garden, learning about plant needs, designing garden layouts, and managing the Garden Club budget. In the warmer months, the focus shifts to hands-on activities such as planting, weeding, watering, and harvesting produce. Participants also explore environmental topics like sustainability, water quality, and climate change through lessons, activities, and field trips.

Community Fridge

CYC operates a community fridge and pantry outside our office space near the Drake neighborhood. This resource provides food and produce to our community (sometimes grown in our community garden) while combatting food waste.