Polk County
Community Grants
Des Moines Community Playhouse Act Two renovation © Todd Copley
About Us
In 1989, Polk County and Prairie Meadows established a partnership with the goal of investing a significant portion of Prairie Meadows’ revenue back into the community. This investment is what allows us to fund our local non-profit community and economic development initiatives through the Community Development and Community Betterment grant programs. The Polk County Board of Supervisors also sponsors community events, such as galas, dinners, walks, etc. to support important issues in our community through the Sponsorship grant program. We are committed to bettering our community by investing in education, arts, culture, health and economic development.
Over the past three decades, together with Prairie Meadows, we have invested over $1.8 Billion to non-profits and local infrastructure projects. These investments play a major role in your everyday life as a resident of Polk County. From your public library, daily workout at the YMCA, major roads you drive on, your child’s school and more, this partnership has invested in it all so you can thrive in the place you call home.
"Polk County recognizes and values the non-profit organizations that serve our community. By supporting these organizations with gaming dollars we help organizations achieve their mission and deliver on behalf of those that they serve."
"Polk County’s investment of gaming dollars to support non-profit organizations is a strategic way to reinvest in the community without increasing the burden on taxpayers. This support helps organizations to expand their services, improve infrastructure, and support more people in need."
"Polk County is committed to supporting community-driven change, nurturing leadership that empowers others, and harnessing the power of collective action. Through our grant program, we aim to assist non-profits that share this vision, helping to create lasting impact to foster positive growth in our communities."
"Many of the improvements that you see in our neighborhoods, such as parks, trails, streetscapes and lighting is a result of Polk County’s grant program. This funding often has a direct impact on the quality of life of our residents and on the safety of our neighborhoods."
"Being able to provide funding to our local non-profits is absolutely essential in helping make sure we are providing opportunities to all of our residents, whether it is by making sure that basic needs such as food and clothing are met or by providing access to culture, education, the outdoors and more."