DAY OF KINDNESS PROCLAIMED AS FEBRUARY 23

WEST DES MOINES, IA (FEBRUARY 13, 2024) – The Governor of Iowa and Mayor of West Des Moines have proclaimed February 23, 2024 as “Day of Kindness.” This special occasion returns for a fourth year of impact after being created by the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce’s (WDM Chamber) Leadership Academy Alumni who were seeking a way to make a positive impact on the community. This day is all about finding ways to be intentional with acts of kindness. 

Community members looking for ways to participate are encouraged to stop by the WDM Chamber office on February 23 between 8 – 9 AM to drop off a new pair of socks. This sock drive will support West Des Moines Human Services through a “Socks of Love” campaign created by WDM Leadership Academy alum, Mick Grossman. The WDM Chamber will also have Hurts Donuts’ treats and coffee ready to enjoy with fellow kind Iowans who drop off socks. Last year, 865 pairs of socks were collected. The WDM Chamber is encouraging the community to embrace this initiative once again and help beat that record. 

“It's easy to take for granted the things we have in life, while there are incredible people right here in our community who don't currently have the means to purchase what most people would consider bare necessities—such as socks during our cold Iowa winters,” said Kara Matheson, VP of Workforce & Culture with the WDM Chamber. “This sock drive, and Day of Kindness as a whole, serve as a reminder that a small gesture truly does go a long way. Think of the impact we can create if we each find one small way to show kindness on February 23.”
 

Studies show that kindness benefits not only the receiver, but also the giver. Whether big or small, monetary or action-oriented, and anonymous or direct, Iowans are encouraged to be intentional with acts of kindness on February 23 to make #IowaKind spread far and wide. 

Visit wdmchamber.org/wdm-kind to view the proclamations and learn more about how to participate. 

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About the WDM Chamber of Commerce

The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, established in 1924, is a dynamic organization dedicated to championing all things West Des Moines. With a focus on strengthening local businesses, providing personalized resources, and attracting a top-tier workforce, the Chamber aims to position WDM as the best suburban city in America. Celebrating a century of excellence, the Chamber boasts a diverse community of over 800 members, offering something for everyone. Explore the possibilities, learn more about the chamber, and discover how you can get involved in shaping the future of West Des Moines at wdmchamber.org.