By Degrees Foundation

10/02/2026

We have a shout-out for our partners at United Way of Central Iowa!

United Way has provided valuable resources every year by supporting our Program Managers in each school. Our work is only possible because of the dedication and presence of our program managers, who work tirelessly to uplift our students. Funding that supports their essential, meaningful work, like that provided by United Way, is critical to our success.

Thank you, United Way, for supporting our Program Managers and the impact they create every day!

09/28/2026

We had a fantastic time at Madison Elementary School - DMPS's Boogie on the Blacktop! 🪩

The staff at Madison warmly welcomed students and their families for an enjoyable evening filled with activities and music. Local community vendors set up along the playground while students moved between games and the dance floor. 🎶

By Degrees had a great time discussing our 529 Program with families, and we are excited for the Madison scholars to start earning! 🪙

09/25/2026

Celebrating 100 Years of Harding!

Last week, dozens of school and community volunteers came together to support the Harding Beautification Project, which celebrated Harding Middle School Des Moines's 100th anniversary. Thanks to Lowe's Home Improvement's generous contributions of plants, soil, raised garden beds, and supplies, volunteers dedicated their day to landscaping the entrances and courtyard.

A big thank you to Lowe's for proudly supporting our schools and our community!

09/22/2026

We visited our partner schools during staff in-service days to treat the faculty to Travelin' Tom's Coffee of Ankeny! ☕

Building intentional partnerships with schools means supporting the teachers and staff who play a vital role in helping our students thrive. Thank you to all the individuals who dedicate their time and effort to educate and support our scholars.🪴

09/21/2026

Thank you, Estes Construction, for selecting By Degrees Foundation as one of 12 recipients of the Quarter 3 Community Impact Grant. We appreciate your recognition of the work of nonprofits across Iowa and are grateful for your support! ✨

Estes Construction is proud to announce our Quarter 3 Community Impact Grant Fund recipients, supporting 12 organizations whose work helps create stronger, more vibrant communities throughout the region and across Iowa.

Selected through Estes Construction's community impact initiative, this quarter's recipients reflect the company's four giving pillars: Underserved Youth, Partnering with Purpose, Talent & Workforce, and Regional Vitality. Through youth development, workforce readiness, community enrichment, economic opportunity, and support services, these organizations are helping create brighter futures for individuals and families across our communities.

At Estes Construction, we believe construction extends beyond the built environment. Every wall raised and every foundation poured is also an investment in people, neighborhoods, and opportunities. Rooted in the legacy of founder Jim Estes, our Community Impact initiatives continue to support organizations creating meaningful change and helping our region thrive for generations to come.

Congratulations to: 👏 Davenport Schools Foundation 👏 By Degrees Foundation 👏 Illowa Council, Scouting America 👏 Junior Achievement👏 River Action Quad Cities 👏 River Bend Food Bank 👏 Rock Island Parks and Recreation 👏 The Putnam Museum and Science Center 👏 Argrow's House 👏 Martin Luther King Center 👏 Luther Park Community 👏 Humility Homes and Services, Inc.

09/17/2026

We would like to thank our community partners, ADM and ADM Cares, for supporting our efforts to reduce food insecurity in our partner schools.

For several years, ADM and ADM Cares have provided critical funding that allows us to provide nutritious meals during evening events for students and families, as well as supplemental snacks between breakfasts and lunches.

Thank you, ADM and ADM Cares, for your ongoing commitment to uplifting our community and supporting our partner schools.

09/10/2026

We are thrilled to have the 2026-27 school year underway! Last week, we kicked things off in style with Findley Elementary School families at their annual Back-to-School Night! 🏫✨

The atmosphere was filled with excitement as students explored the school and ventured into their classrooms. Our hallways were filled with community and postsecondary partners eager to connect with students and share all the amazing programming lined up for this year!

A huge thank you to all the incredible faculty, staff, and volunteers who helped create such a magical night of excitement and learning. Cheers to another fantastic school year ahead! 📚🎉

09/10/2026

Our Executive Director, Emily Westergaard, recently sat down with the Move the City FWD Podcast to discuss education, opportunity, and health.

You can watch the full episode on economic mobility and access now: https://mycitymyhealth.transistor.fm/

09/01/2026

We’re hiring a Director of Development!

This leader will shape and execute By Degrees Foundation’s fundraising strategy, cultivate strong philanthropic partnerships, and help build the resources needed to support our continued growth and impact.

We’re looking for an experienced, relationship-driven fundraising professional who is strategic, collaborative, and excited about advancing economic mobility for Des Moines students and families.

Learn more and apply at the link in our bio.

09/01/2026

We’re hiring a Director of Development!

This leader will shape and execute By Degrees Foundation’s fundraising strategy, cultivate strong philanthropic partnerships, and help build the resources needed to support our continued growth and impact.

We’re looking for an experienced, relationship-driven fundraising professional who is strategic, collaborative, and excited about advancing economic mobility for Des Moines students and families.

Learn more and apply: https://by-degrees-foundation.prismhr-hire.com/job/1054146/director-of-development