909 Robert D. Ray Drive

Des Moines, IA 50309

(515) 323-6290

www.dmbotanicalgarden.com

 

Our Impact

16,809

Number of Individuals reached through 448 education and outreach programs.

15,328

Free admissions through innovative programs and partnerships.

138,971

Total guests welcomed from all 50 states and beyond.

 

Mission

Exploring, explaining and celebrating the world of plants with our community.

Key Services Provided

The Botanical Garden is more than a dome; it’s a connection point among plants, people and the natural world. The 12 acres include 18 garden spaces and 4 acres of free public garden access. It offers a variety of programs, activities, events and an oasis of respite in every season.

Key Audiences Served

We serve all of Iowa and beyond, welcoming over 1 million visitors from around the world since 2013. The Garden is inviting to guests of all ages, abilities and from all backgrounds. We are supported by members, volunteers and community partners, including local agencies serving youth, low-income and marginalized communities.

Ways to give

  • Volunteer your time.

  • Become a member.

  • Take a class.

  • Donate.

  • Sponsor an event.


What are the most immediate needs to support your organization?

The Botanical Garden is committed to providing equitable access to a green space with arts and culture by reducing financial barriers for low-income and underserved individuals. Through accessible programming, we welcome diverse socioeconomic audiences who come together to experience the beauty of the gardens and gain appreciation for the role nature plays in our world. Free access programs are made possible through donations and community support. Your donation helps people from all walks of life “find their true nature” in our always-friendly climate. As a resource for ecological stewardship and horticulture education, we strive to inform, illuminate and inspire.

 
 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

  • Chair - Mike Abbott, Faegre Drinker

  • Vice chair - Chris Hensley, community volunteer

  • Vice chair - Travis Sheets, GuideOne Insurance

  • Treasurer - Everett Miles, Principal Financial Group

  • Secretary - Doug Van Zanten, EMC Insurance

  • Immediate past-chair - Ed Kenny, community volunteer

  • Shannon Bielski, Sammons Financial Group

  • Sarah Boese, Polk County

  • Kevin Chorniak, Bankers Trust

  • Jenny Drake, Heart of America Group

  • Graham Gillette, Des Moines Water Works

  • Jen Hanks, Corteva Agriscience

  • R. Scott Johnson, Fredrikson & Byron P.A.

  • Proctor Lureman, Broadlawns Medical Center

  • Shannon Maddy, John Deere

  • Ben Page, city of Des Moines Parks and Recreation

  • Randy Ramundt, community volunteer

  • Claudia Schabel, Schabel Solutions

  • Mike Simonson, Simonson & Associates Architects

  • Jill Stevenson, community volunteer

  • Linda Westergaard, Ward 2 City Council