Des Moines, Iowa – Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) is moving forward with a community-driven process to determine the future leadership of the Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families, a vital resource for Central Iowans. A public forum is scheduled for March 24th, offering residents an opportunity to hear directly from two finalist organizations vying to take the helm of the center, which has been providing crucial services since 2012.
The community conversation, set to take place from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. At the DMACC Urban Campus (Building 7, 1144 7th Street, Des Moines), is a key step in DMACC’s request for proposal (RFP) process. The college initiated the RFP in December 2025, seeking a new entity to assume full operational leadership of the Evelyn K. Davis Center. This move comes as DMACC aims to ensure the center’s long-term sustainability and continued impact on the community. The process reflects a deliberate, values-driven approach emphasizing community input, accountability, and transparency, according to Kyle Collins, Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs at DMACC.
A Legacy of Support: The Evelyn K. Davis Center’s Impact
Since its establishment in 2012, the Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families has develop into a trusted hub for individuals and families in Central Iowa. The center provides a comprehensive suite of services designed to empower residents and foster economic stability. These services include education programs, workforce training initiatives, financial empowerment resources, and family support services. The center’s mission aligns with the legacy of Evelyn K. Davis, whose vision prioritized opportunities for working families. The center’s 2024-2026 Strategic Plan outlines its continued commitment to these core principles.
The need for such a center remains significant. Access to affordable education, job training, and financial literacy programs are critical for individuals seeking to improve their economic circumstances and contribute to the region’s workforce. The Evelyn K. Davis Center fills a vital gap in the social safety net, providing support to those who may face barriers to opportunity. The center’s impact extends beyond individual clients, strengthening families and bolstering the overall economic health of the community.
The RFP Process and Finalist Selection
DMACC’s decision to seek a new operating entity for the Evelyn K. Davis Center stems from a desire to ensure the center’s continued success and adaptability in a changing landscape. The RFP process was launched to identify organizations with the expertise, resources, and commitment to lead the center into its next chapter. Eligible applicants included nonprofit organizations, governmental entities, and accredited educational institutions. The deadline for proposals was February 28, 2026, and applicants were required to attend one of two informational sessions held in January 2026.
Following a thorough review of the submitted proposals, DMACC identified two finalists. These organizations will present their vision and approach for the center’s future during the March 24th community conversation. Each finalist will have 20 minutes to outline their plans, followed by an opportunity for public input. Attendees will be invited to submit written feedback via “insight cards,” which will be used to inform the final selection process. The names of the two finalists will be made public prior to the event, allowing the community to review their proposals and prepare questions.
Community Input: A Cornerstone of the Decision
DMACC emphasizes the importance of community involvement in this critical decision. The March 24th forum is designed to be an open and transparent dialogue, allowing residents to voice their perspectives and contribute to the future direction of the Evelyn K. Davis Center. “The Community Conversation is an important step within our broader RFP process,” said Collins. “It gives the community the opportunity to learn more about the finalist organizations and their proposed vision and impact for the Evelyn K. Davis Center. We look forward to welcoming the community on March 24.”
The emphasis on community voice reflects a broader trend in nonprofit governance, where stakeholders are increasingly recognized as essential partners in shaping organizational strategy and ensuring accountability. By actively soliciting input from residents, DMACC aims to build a stronger, more responsive center that effectively addresses the evolving needs of the community. The insight cards will provide valuable qualitative data, complementing the quantitative analysis of the proposals.
Timeline for Transition and Future Operations
The selection process is expected to conclude in April 2026, with a final decision announced shortly thereafter. Following the selection, a transition period will commence, culminating in the new operating entity assuming full responsibility for the Evelyn K. Davis Center on July 1, 2026. This phased approach will ensure a smooth handover of operations and minimize disruption to the center’s services. The RFP document, available on the DMACC website, provides a detailed timeline of key milestones.
The transition plan will address critical areas such as staffing, funding, program delivery, and data management. DMACC will work closely with the selected organization to ensure a seamless transfer of knowledge, and resources. The goal is to maintain the continuity of services while also fostering innovation and improvement. The long-term success of the Evelyn K. Davis Center depends on a well-executed transition plan and a strong partnership between DMACC and the new operating entity.
Key Dates and Information
- Community Conversation: March 24, 2026, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m., DMACC Urban Campus, Building 7, Room 170, 1144 7th Street, Des Moines
- Finalist Announcement: Prior to March 24, 2026
- Final Selection: April 2026
- Transition Implementation: Subject to final selection
- Full Operating Responsibility Transfer: July 1, 2026
- Website for Updates: www.dmacc.edu/ekdc
For further information or to submit questions regarding the RFP process, individuals can contact Kyle Collins, Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs at DMACC, at [email protected] or 515-965-7304.
The future of the Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families is at a pivotal moment. The upcoming community conversation represents a crucial opportunity for residents to shape the center’s direction and ensure it continues to serve as a vital resource for generations to approach. The selection of a new operating entity will determine the center’s ability to adapt to evolving community needs and maintain its commitment to empowering individuals and families in Central Iowa.
Stay tuned for updates on the finalist organizations and the outcome of the selection process. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and perspectives on the future of the Evelyn K. Davis Center in the comments below.
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