West Des Moines Leadership Academy Graduates Class and Breaks Fundraising Record

The West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA), a program of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, congratulates the Class of 2025 on graduating. During the nine-month program, participants built leadership skills through hands-on learning, critical thinking, and a Community Impact Project that set a new fundraising record.

The 33-member class supported West Des Moines Human Services through its Community of Care Campaign. Instead of hosting one large fundraiser, they took a multi-faceted approach—earning points by promoting the cause, collecting donations, volunteering, and fundraising across their networks. Each team also had a community captain to boost engagement. Thank you to Mayor Russ Trimble, Fire Chief Craig Leu, David Maxwell, and Jamie Letzring for serving in that role.

The campaign reached 44,000 people, collected 10,728 donation items, logged 118 volunteer hours, and raised a record-breaking $61,525. While the class united behind one cause, the top-scoring team—Fire Chief Craig Leu’s “Firebirds”—won the competition and earned the chance to pie their captain.

The Class of 2025’s efforts will have a lasting impact. West Des Moines Human Services has supported low-income, elderly, and disabled residents since 1979, serving over 2,000 households annually in West Des Moines and nearby suburbs. Services include emergency aid for rent and utilities, youth recreation assistance, clothing, food, and more, ensuring those in need are met with compassion and support.

“In West Des Moines, we believe in building a community that is rooted in care,” shared Audrey Kennis, Director for West Des Moines Human Services. “The Community of Care Campaign is designed to encourage and support the residents and businesses of WDM in advocating for, volunteering for, and donating to causes that make our city a better place to live. By coming together, we can support those in need, strengthen our sense of community, and create a lasting impact for generations to come.”

Below are the names of the West Des Moines Leadership Academy Class of 2025:

• Jaden Adams

• Mel Applebee

• Elyse Austin

• John Baumhover

• Mike Bird

• Lindsey Bosworth

• Carlos Castillo

• Zac Christensen

• Michelle Cole

• Ed Croushore

• Laura Garcia

• Leigh Goldie

• Casey Guess

• Lorenz Hasan

• Tabitha Hockel

• Todd Holup

• Greg Hudson

• Madison Kruger

• Jaime Leiva

• Alex Limón

• Abby McConnaughhay

• Alyssa McNab

• Ryan Nelson

• Wes Pieper

• Karly Rehman

• Brianna Ricklefs

• Tammy Rodriquez

• Anchit Sharma

• Ashlen Sheaffer

• Shelbie Simmons

• Makayla Smith

• Rick Tucker

• Betsy West

To learn more about the Class of 2025, view this link. To learn more about the WDM Leadership Academy, visit here.

NCMIC was the presenting sponsor of the 2025 West Des Moines Leadership Academy.
 

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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