FIFTH ANNUAL DAY OF KINDNESS PROCLAIMED AS FEBRUARY 28

Governor Kim Reynolds and Mayor Russ Trimble approved the proclamation for “Day of Kindness,” championed by the WDM Chamber’s Leadership Academy Alumni.

WEST DES MOINES, IA (Feb. 11, 2025) – The Governor of Iowa and Mayor of West Des Moines have proclaimed February 28, 2025, as “Day of Kindness.” This special occasion returns for a fifth 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 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 (650 S. Prairie View Parkway, Suite 110, West Des Moines, IA) on Friday, February 28, between 8 a.m. – 9 a.m. 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. This year’s presenting sponsor, Signal, will also have Hurts Donuts and coffee ready to enjoy for those who drop off socks. In 2024, over 2,000 pairs of socks were collected. The WDM Chamber is encouraging the community to embrace this initiative once again and help beat that record.

“It may seem like a simple gesture, but providing bare necessities – like socks during our cold Iowa winters – makes a significant impact on people in our community who don’t have the means to purchase what many of us take for granted every day,” said Kara Matheson, VP of workforce and culture at the WDM Chamber. “It is incredibly rewarding to see our annual sock drive grow for its fifth consecutive year. I hope everyone will consider joining us in showing this simple act of kindness on February 28.”

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 28 to make #IowaKind spread far and wide.

Visit wdmchamber.org/day-of-kindness 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 900 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.