WEST DES MOINES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY ANNOUNCES CLASS OF 2025-26 RAISES NEARLY $90,000 FOR CAN PLAY

WEST DES MONES, IA (May 27, 2026) – The West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA), a program of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, congratulates the Class of 2026 on their community project benefiting Can Play. Over the course of the nine-month program, the 42-member class strengthened leadership skills through hands-on learning, critical thinking, and a Community Impact Project focused on expanding and assisting the West Des Moines community members.

The class selected Can Play, a non-profit organization dedicated to breaking down barriers to sports and recreation, by offering adapted and no-cost programming for youth and families facing disabilities, chronic health conditions, and financial barriers. Through its core programs—Adapted Sports, Victory League, and H.E.R.S.—Can Play helps participants build confidence, develop skills, and experience the joy of play in an inclusive environment.

To support this mission, the WDMLA Class of 2026 executed a multi-pronged campaign that combined fundraising, volunteering, and community engagement. At the center of their efforts was their signature event, Can Play Fore All, a creative mini-golf fundraiser inspired by traditional golf tournaments. The event featured 18 uniquely designed and sponsored holes—many built using packaged snack foods that were later donated for use in Can Play programs. The event alone was powered by more than 220 volunteer hours.

Beyond the signature event, the class partnered with Play It Again Sports to host a sports equipment drive, allowing community members to donate gently used athletic gear, with proceeds benefiting Can Play. Donations to the Can Play account at Play It Again Sports will continue until the end of the year. The class also contributed 61 volunteer hours directly supporting programs, participating in activities such as soccer, basketball, bowling, and interactive games designed for participants of all abilities.

A key focus of the campaign was helping Can Play secure a new transportation van to expand access for participants and equipment. Through sponsorships and community partnerships, the class successfully rallied support to make this goal a reality.

The community responded with overwhelming generosity. The campaign raised $76,294.56 in sponsorships, $13,733 in in-kind donations, and additional funds through raffles and full class giving. After expenses, the class achieved a final fundraising total of $90,027.56, exceeding their original $65,000 goal by $25,000.

These efforts will have a lasting impact, enabling Can Play to purchase a new van, reinvest funds into programming, and build resources to support participants throughout the summer and beyond.

“The West Des Moines Leadership Academy has been an incredible partner, choosing Can Play as their class project, raising funds for our programs, and helping us secure a new van that will expand access for the kids we serve,” said Melissa Clarke-Wharff, Executive Director of Can Play. “Their leadership, paired with the creativity of their mini-golf event, is a great example of leaders coming together to remove barriers and expand opportunities for kids in our community.”

NCMIC served as the presenting sponsor of the 2026 West Des Moines Leadership Academy.

To learn more about the West Des Moines Leadership Academy, visit the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce.

Learn more about Can Play at https://can-play.org/

Learn more about Play It Again Sports (Urbandale, IA) at https://playitagainsports.com/locations/urbandale-ia/

###

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. 

About WDMLA

The West Des Moines Leadership Academy, established in 2008 develops confident, community-minded leaders through a hands-on leadership experience focused on leading self, others, and community. Unlike traditional metro leadership programs centered primarily on governance and civic education, WDLMA emphasizes personal growth, leadership development, and practical skill-building that participants can immediately apply in their careers, businesses, and communities. Since its founding, the program has built a strong reputation for producing servant leaders and driving meaningful professional and community impact.