Register Now & Save! 4th Annual Hope for Hungry Symposium is November 10th |

Feeding Greater Des Moines will be held at St. John's Lutheran Church, in downtown Des Moines, on Nov. 10, 2012, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dr. Yogesh Shah, Assoc. Dean of global health at DM University, is keynote speaker.
The goal is to alleviate childhood hunger in the Greater Des Moines area by 2015. This symposium will seek creative solutions toward accomplishing this goal. The day includes speakers, videos, break-out groups & prizes! The Bridge, an ecumenical group of downtown churches, will provide lunch. A free-will offering for lunch will support the Bridge's downtown Connection Cafe, which serves free lunch five days a week to people in need. Click here for a
| |
Register for 2012 Healthy Farms, Healthy People State Meeting!
The Iowa Food Systems Council has been selected to host the 2012 Healthy Farms, Healthy People State Meeting on Nov. 16, 2012, at the Fisher Community Center in Marshalltown, Iowa. Online registration for this first year event is now available. Register early to guarantee yourself a seat! Consider representing your organization or your own work at this meeting by submitting a proposal to speak! Long and short presentations that showcase how the health of Iowans is dependent on healthy relationships between agriculture, food, health care and public health are needed. Email the Iowa Food Systems Council or call 515-423-0660. |

Calendar Proceeds to benefit DMARC
The Center for Social Mininstry (CSM); an organization offering poverty awareness and justice education programming is featuring CSM and 12 nonprofit organizations in the Des Moines Area including DMARC!
These beautiful calendars are professionally done and would make fabulous holiday gifts for friends/family!
DMARC will receive 20% of the proceeds for calendars sold by DMARC, call 515-277-6969.
Cost: $15.00 for one
$25.00 for two
$10.00 each for 3+ |
New Food Pantry in northern Des Moines part of DMARC's Food Pantry Network |
On October 2nd, the Epworth Center for Social Ministry and the Epworth United Methodist Church opened a new DMARC Food Pantry at 412 Euclid Ave., Des Moines, an area of town that has not had a pantry in recent years. Epworth is the 13th partner food pantry within the DMARC Food Pantry Network. Pantry hours are Tuesday evenings, from 5:30-8:30pm and Saturdays from 10am-2pm and is open to anyone in the Greater Des Moines community.
For a list of DMARC food pantry locations and hours call, 515 277 6969. To support DMARC's Food Pantry Network through donations, call the number above or visit www.movethefood.org. |
Five Thousand Diapers received through Iowa Health Systems Campaign! |
|
In the Iowa Health Systems "Diaper-a-Day" campaign, DMARC received the equivalent of 5,000 diapers, breaking last year's total by 1,000! The diapers will help about 1,300 low income families with toddlers and babies ages 24 months and younger. Diapers are not included in other safety-net programs such as SNAP and WIC. Diapers can always be donated through the Red Barrels located in Dahl's, Fareway, Hy-Vee and Walgreens, stores or at the DMARC warehouse at 3816 36th St., weekdays from 8am to 4pm. |
Des Moines Area Religious Council
3816 36th Street, Suite 202
Des Moines, IA 50310-4710
515-277-6969
www.dmreligious.org
www.movethefood.org
|
|
|
|
Greetings!
A reminder that the Hope for the Hungry symposium is this Saturday, November 11th, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Des Moines (scroll to see ad on left for details and how to register).
Also, The Comparison Project is holding another event on November 14th, at Drake University in Des Moines. You will learn how the town of Elkader, in northeast Iowa, got it's name (scoll below to see details on the event).
The holidays are fast approaching and the Des Moines Area Religious Council's food pantry warehouse will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 22 and the Friday following, Nov. 23.
Thank you. |
|
Community Calendar
We are pleased to point you to the community calendar on the DMARC website. You may access it at any time. Feel free to upload your own events! Just click on "add an event".
Healthy Lung Expo 2012 is November 9
Do you or a loved one have a question about lung health? Join the American Lung Association in Iowa at the Healthy Lung Expo on Nov. 9, 2012, at the West Des Moines Sheraton. This program is designed for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to learn more about the latest trends, resources, and research surrounding lung health. The day will include presentations, lunch, door prizes, exhibits and oxygen refills. For details or to register, visit: www.LungIA.org or call 515-309-9507.
Transformative Path of Contemplative Dialogue is Saturday, November 9 & 10
Introduction to the practice on Friday from 9am to 3:30pm. On Saturday, from 9am to 12:30pm, Deepening Our Understanding and Experience of Contemplative Dialogue with facilitator Connie Schoen, OP. The practice offers proven ways to overcome divisions, builds a shared approach that is effective, practical and better allows us to do what we do best. Sponsored by the Des Moines Pastoral Counseling Center. Location: Covenant Christian Church, 2700 72nd St., Urbandale. Registration cost is $55 for Friday only, or $30 for Saturday only. $75 both days. Contact: Kathy Reardon. An informational flyer is available online.
Comfort Food Cook-Off
A fundraiser to benefit Des Moines Area Interfaith Hospitality Network is Sunday, November 11, at 5-7pm. Sample comfort foods prepared by IHN host congregations and vote for your favorite. Silent quilt auction. Location: West DM Christian Church, 4501 Mills Civic Pkwy. Celebrity judges include: Katie Ward, KCCI morning news anchor; Joe Logsdon, LaMie Bakery; Chef Terri Kohl, Country Club Market. Cost: $15/adults, $5/children, 12 & under. Go to: www.dmihn.org for ticket info.
Drake University Humanities Center to Sponsor Events for The Comparison Project
Aims of The Comparison Project are to educate about diversity between and within religious, as well as providing a forum in which local religious congregations could dialogue on issues of religious and community import. Since its begining, the Project has added the third aim of producing knowledge in comparative philosophy of historical religions. The next event is Nov. 14, at 7pm at Olin Hall. Author John Kiser will present Loss and Suffering with dignity, Abd el-Kader's Jihad with France. Did you know? The town of Elkader, Ia., is named after Abd-el-Kader, Algerian freedom fighter and hero.
And on Tuesday, November 13, from Noon-1pm, John Kiser will present a program on el-Kader at the downtown Central Library, 1000 Grand Ave., Des Moines. This program sponsored by DuPont Pioneer through their International Center Dialogue Series. (Bring your own lunch).
New Mentorship Program Announced and Applications Available; Deadline is November 15th
Leaders of Capital Crossroads five-year regional vision plan have developed an inter-generational mentorship program, Community Connect: Mentors Inspiring Success sustains and expands leadership throughout the region by inspiring future leaders and givers through meaningful and creative mentoring connections.
The mentorship program is designed to connect participants from all generations to our community's more experienced leaders. Sessions include: Creativity & Innovation: Learn to think about your work and relationships in different ways; Looking From the Inside Out: Personal Mission, Values and Passions; What's Your Brand?; Maximize the Potential of Your Connections; and Living your Legacy. Complete application at: www.communityconnectgdm.org. Applications are accepted Oct. 16-Nov. 15, 2012. Only 30 participants will be selected for the five-month program. Funded by the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines.
Iowa Faith Energized by Iowa IPL
Iowa Interfaith Power & Light is co-sponsoring an event to share information with faith communities about how to save money and care for the Earth through the use of energy efficiency and renewable energy. Participants will hear from congregations who have cut their energy costs and benefit from an investment in solar energy. This is a great event for your Green Team and Property Committee to attend:
Thursday, November 15, 2012
St. Pius X Catholic School
3601 66th Street
Urbandale, Iowa 50311
6-8pm
This event is sponsored by the Iowa Renewable Energy Jobs 2020 initiative, and organized by: Iowa Interfaith Power & Light, Iowa Public Interest Research Group, Iowa Catholic Conference, Iowa Conference of the United Methodist Church, I-RENEW, and the Iowa Energy Center. For more information please contact Susan Guy. |
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) 2012-2013
Applications will be taken starting November 1, 2012 for the 2012-2013 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. This program is funded by the Department of Health and Human Services through the Iowa Department of Human Rights/DCAA, and has been established to help qualifying low-income Iowa homeowners and renters pay for a portion of their primary heating costs.
Red Rock Area Community Action Program, Inc. Rural Polk County Office is located at 406 SW School St., Suite 201; Ankeny, Iowa 50023, and will be taking applications from November 1, 2012 through April 30, 2013 (October 1 for households with elderly/disabled member). Applicants will need to furnish some form of identification, a copy of their most recent heating and electric bill, telephone bill, and proof of all household members' gross income for the past three months or for the past calendar year.
The assistance is based on household income, household size, type of fuel, and other factors.
Eligibility for participation is established according to the following federal income guidelines:
INCOME MAXIMUMS
|
LIHEAP |
LIHEAP |
Household |
3-Month Gross |
Annual Gross |
Size |
Income |
Income |
1 |
$ 4,189 |
$ 16,755 |
2 |
5,674 |
22,695 |
3 |
7,159 |
28,635 |
4 |
8,644 |
34,575 |
5 |
10,129 |
40,515 |
6 |
11,614 |
46,455 |
For households with more than six members, add $1,485 / $5,940 for each additional member.
* Medical Waiver: Households who are over LIHEAP regular income guidelines may be eligible for LIHEAP benefits through our medical waiver component. The medical expenses must be documented, paid, and non-reimbursable. For more information please contact your local community action agency. |
Adult Ed Classes at Temple B'Nai Jeshurun
Rabbi David Kaufman will teach two, 3-week long courses. The first course is entitled The Growth of Reform and will meet, November 6, 13, and 20, from 7-8:30 p.m. You will learn about the Reform movement during the 19th Century and the various prayer books used in Reform congregations. The second course is Modern Reform and will meet November 27, December 4 & 11, from 7-8:30pm. Rabbi Kaufman will examine the changes in the Reform movement over the past century. They will also look at the Reform movement's liturgy up through the newest prayer book.
Aldersgate United Methodist Hosts Harvest Concert, November 11
The 8th Annual Harvest Concert is Sunday, November 11, at 2pm and again at 4pm at the Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 3600 75th St., Urbandale. These concert events have raised over $31,000 in cash for the DMARC Food Pantry Network. In 2011, they raised $9,000. This year, the concert goal has been set at $5,000. Featured groups are: We Got Male Community Men's Chorus and Choirs from Aldersgate. For details, go to: www.aldersgatedsm.org.
St. Paul's Presbyterian Church in Johnston to host Meals from the Heartland event.
On Saturday, November 17th from 9am to 4pm, several work stations will be set up to make Meals from the Heartland meal packets. Organizations can sign up teams of 8 to 10 people per one hour shift. Each team will need to find sponsors for their shift to raise about $400 to pay for cost of meals. Donations from individuals, businesses, churches and community organizations also needed. To volunteer or donate, visit: www.stpaul-johnston.com and click on Meals from the Heartland link of contact Annie Temple at 515-270-1871, atemple@q.com
Local Catholics record Christmas CD - now for sale!
A new CD collection, entitled, "We Need A Savior" has been recorded locally and features over 100 singers and musicians from 18 different Catholic churches, as well as the Dowling Catholic H.S. Choir. $15.00 each, or $40 for three. Proceeds will go toward Iowa Catholic Radio. CD's will be available for purchase after Masses at St. Ambrose on Nov. 3, 4, in the vestibule. Checks can be made out to Iowa Catholic Radio.
First Circle Friends Offers Caregivers Respite
Lutheran Services in Iowa (LSI) is proud to introduce a new program to the Des Moines area. First Circle Friends is a group respite program for people with early to mid-stage memory loss, and is run in partnership between LSI and area congregations.
Participants are currently being accepted for this program developed by Lutheran Services in America (LSA) and Lyngblomsten in Minnesota. First Circle Friends will be held the first and third Thursday of each month from 10am to 3pm, at Grace Lutheran Church, 3010 52nd St., Des Moines, IA 50310, beginning Nov. 1, 2012.
If you are the caregiver of a loved one experiencing memory loss, or know of a family who you feel could benefit from this program, contact Kara Ullestad, First Circle Friends coordinator, at: 515-271-7408.
First Circle Friends presents a day of renewal for people experiencing early- to mid-stage memory loss - offering them a variety of stimulating activities with a specially trained group of volunteers to engage their minds and bodies. While their loved ones experiencing memory loss enjoy a safe and engaging time, caregivers can do errands, visit with a friend, and/or rest in order to replenish their energies for their role of caregiving. After a fun time with peers for the participants and a restful break for their caregivers, both can go back home to their daily routines feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. |
Job / Volunteer / Training Opportunities
Executive Director Volunteer - The Jane Foundation, Des Moines
Carry out Jane Foundations guidelines already established: emphasize peacemaking, social justice, the arts and the environment. Email resume to Jane Magers by Monday, November 12, at 5pm, or send to 1922 Lincoln Ave., DesMoines, IA 50314. Questions? Contact: keepinkidsfirst@gmail.com.
Pastor - St. Paul Presbyterian Church, Johnston
A complete job description is at the Des Moines Presbytery office or contact church Office Administrator at: 515 276-2818 or stpaulpres@mchsi.com, PO Box 158, Johnston, IA 50131.
Multiple Job Opportunities - Candeo, Johnston
Currently looking for part time,full time or less than 20 hrs.
- Supported Community Livings Instructor
- Instructors of Brain Injury Service
- Mental Health Instructor
- Overmight Asleep/and or Awake Instructor
- Team Leader
- Habilitation Team Leader
- Employment Consultant
- Service Coordinator
For more information contact: Erin Zirkelbach, HR Coordinator
9550 White Oak Lane, Johnston, IA 50131, 515-259-8110 x 2022.
Senior Companions - Visiting Nurse Services, Des Moines
Earn extra money up to $200-$400 + every month.
If you are 55 years old or older, able to serve 15 hours /week, open to providing friendly, one-to-one visits to homebound infividuals, making an income at or below $22,340 or more, able to drive (not always mandatory) and a resident of Polk or Warren County. Tax-free hourly stipend, meal reimbursement, holiday and vacation pay, initial training, annual physical and supplemental accident/liability insurance while on duty. Contact the Senior Companion Program Director Julia Tiedeman, 515-558-9957.
Lead Teachers - New Horizons Academy Childcare/Preschool, Des Moines
Private elementary school needs lead teachers in the infant room and in the toddler room. Or a Teacher Associate is needed (will be working with the Lead Teacher for children ages 3-5.) Compensation is $8-10 per hour. Part time, contract. Work experience with kids in a child center or school, flexible, energetic and reliable. Teach, support, motivate and facilitate age appropriate activities, Ability to work within a diverse environment and praise diversity. To apply, send email with resume, work experiences, education to: ynewhorizonsacademy04@gmail.com. |
|
Who are we?
The Des Moines Area Religious Council is an interfaith organization with a core membership of about 140 congregations from four faith traditions. Recipient of the 2010 Aurora Award from The Des Moines Register, DMARC provides a common means of responding to basic human needs and a context for interfaith dialogue.
The DMARC Food Pantry Network consists of 13 separate pantry sites, a centralized warehouse, and numerous community partners. It is the largest food pantry network in Iowa. Pantry sites are located in West Des Moines, Ankeny, Johnston, Urbandale, and nine sites in Des Moines. In 2011, the DMARC Food Pantry
Network assisted over 33,000 people..
MovetheFood is a DMARC-led initiative to address the entire food system in Greater Des Moines, building on more than 35 years of the Food Pantry Network, catalyzing fresh generations, and engaging new constituencies to further support a vision for a day when everyone in Polk County has enough to eat. |
|
|