“When Americans think of freedom, we usually imagine a contest between a lone individual and a powerful government,” writes Timothy Snyder in his treatise On Tyranny — an Antifa 101 reading assignment, if there ever was one.
“This is all well and good. But one element of freedom is the choice of associates, and one defense of freedom is the activity of groups to sustain their members.”
Thus, number 15 in Snyder’s list of “20 Lessons from the 20th Century” is, “Contribute to good causes. Be active in organizations, political or not, that express your own view of life.”
Tens of thousands of Iowans got active on Oct. 18 for No Kings Day rallies in more than 40 cities. Smaller numbers activate every day to defend immigrants from ICE capture; collect food for pantries and shelters that are more strained now than during the worst days of the pandemic; adopt or foster animals from overburdened shelters; contribute their skills to a free clinic; and plan cultural events and educational opportunities in their community, creating those essential third spaces to gather, express and relax outside of work and school. Simply checking out a library book, hiking with a group, strolling through an arts festival and cheering at a drag show are net positives in the fight against fascism.
It’s no secret that the arts, like activism, can be a powerful tool to express our collective discontent. Which is why this administration’s hostility towards the arts is unsurprising. You’d be hard-pressed to find an arts presenter that hasn’t been affected by that hostility, whether it’s the University of Iowa’s International Writing Program losing federal funding while the Iowa Summer Writing Festival and Iowa Youth Writing Project are axed outright, or Iowa’s nonprofit cinemas, museums and libraries missing out on mission-critical endowments allocated by Congress.
From food banks to music camps for kids, Iowa’s orgs must compete for smaller and smaller pools of funding as demand on their services surges amid economic downturn, spiking energy costs, DOGE-d federal assistance and international humanitarian crises.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. Like an inflatable frog standing before a gaggle of masked agents, nonprofits are navigating this new landscape with subversive creativity and “fuck you, make me” panache. There’s never been a better time to throw your support behind the teams tackling the state’s key crises and preserving our natural resources, multicultural history and quality of life.
The guide below, compiled by Little Village editors, is by no means an exhaustive list of all central and eastern Iowa nonprofits, but it’s a great place to start if you want to exercise your First Amendment right to free association this holiday season. Contribute some money, sign up for a newsletter, attend an event and consider giving some of your own time to the cause.
—Emma McClatchey and Chuy Renteria
Don’t see your favorite org represented? Let LV know at editor@littlevillagemag.com.
When in doubt, inquire about…
- Your city or county’s food pantry
- Your local public library’s foundation (“Friends of the…”)
- Your county’s housing trust fund
- Your city or region’s bail fund
- Your local Pride organization
- Your favorite river, lake or stream’s clean-up group
- Your local animal shelter’s foundation
- Your local faith community’s food or clothing bank
- Your county’s chapter of: Habitat for Humanity, the Ronald McDonald House, United Way, Meals on Wheels, The Arc, NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), Toys for Tots, Big Brothers Big Sisters, PFLAG, Izaak Walton League, etc.
I want my dollars to improve…
Heathcare access
Iowa Abortion Access Fund
iowaabortionaccessfund.org, 312-663-0338
Financial assistance (in partnership with Chicago Abortion Fund) and help accessing abortion services for people in Iowa
Learn more about IAAF’s partnership with the Chicago Abortion Fund:
Iowa Trans Mutual Aid Fund
iowatransmutualaidfund.org
Helps trans, nonbinary and gender diverse Iowans pay for gender-affirming care
Iowa Harm Reduction Coalition
iowaharmreductioncoalition.org
Central Iowa: 515-207-5202; NE Iowa: 563-845-3091; SE Iowa: 319-214-0540
Naloxone distro, social justice advocacy and more to support people affected by drug addiction and enforcement
Monsoon Asians & Pacific Islanders in Solidarity
4944 Franklin Ave, Ste B, Des Moines
1700 S 1st Ave, Ste 18 Iowa City 1789 Elm St, Dubuque
monsooniowa.org, Helpline: 1-866-881-4641
Free, confidential, multilingual support for victim-survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse and human trafficking in Iowa’s AAPI communities
Nisaa African Family Services
4944 Franklin Ave, Ste P, Des Moines
1700 S 1st Ave, Ste A & B, Iowa City
nisaa-afs.org, 24-hour helpline: 1-844-269-6203
Direct services for victim-survivors in Iowa’s African immigrant and refugee communities, including court, immigration, medical, housing, employment and child care aid
University of Iowa Mobile Clinic
iowamobileclinic.org, 319-535-2684
Interdisciplinary student org providing free health screenings and basic care throughout Iowa
Access 2 Independence
1556 S 1st Ave Ste B, Iowa City
601 2nd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids
access2independence.org, 319-338-3870
Removes barriers and provides support for individuals with disabilities in eastern Iowa
Autonomy Iowa City
autonomyiowacity.org, icjane@proton.me
Assists access to free emergency contraception, pregnancy tests, abortion pills and out-of-state abortion care. Formerly the Iowa Jane Collective
BIPOC Healing Collective
Iowa City, bipochc.com
Culturally responsive mental health services for BIPOC, LGBTQ+, disabled, neurodivergent, undocumented and other minority clients
The Bird House Hospice Home of Johnson County
8 Lime Kiln Ln NE, Iowa City
thebirdhousejc.org, 319-499-1882
End-of-life care and comfort in a residence surrounded by nature
CommUnity Crisis Services
1121 S Gilbert Ct, Iowa City, builtbycommunity.org
Helpline: 988; request a Mobile Crisis Response: 1-855-581-8111
Mental health resources in Johnson and Iowa counties
Community Health Free Clinic
947 14th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids
communityhfc.org, 319-363-0416
Free walk-in care, eye exams and prescription services on weekdays. Non-emergency
Emma Goldman Clinic
227 N Dubuque St, Iowa City
emmagoldman.com, 800-848-7684
The first outpatient abortion clinic in Iowa. Provides reproductive healthcare and advocacy
Healing Prairie Farm
Johnson County
builtbycommunity.org/hpf, 319-255-7006
Crisis stabilization and long-term shelter for youth in a calm rural setting
Iowa City Sober Living
iowacitysoberliving.com
A recovery home for women
Iowa City Free Medical and Dental Clinic
2440 Towncrest Dr, Iowa City
freemedicalclinic.org, 319-337-4459
Free medical care, specialty care, basic dental care and prescription assistance. Non-emergency
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Johnson County
1531 S Gilbert St, Iowa City
namijc.org, 319-337-5400
Mobile crisis line: 1-800-332-4224
Free mental health care services and education for all ages in partnership with CommUnity, Iowa Crisis Chat and the Iowa Department of Public Health. Peer-to-peer and family-to-family counseling
Systems Unlimited
2533 Scott Blvd SE, Iowa City
sui.org, 319-338-9212
Clinical health services and opportunities for work, volunteering, socializing, art and more for people with developmental, intellectual and physical disabilities, as well as aging, behavioral and mental health needs
Tanager Place
Cedar Rapids: 2309 C St SW & 1030 5th Ave SE
Coralville: 250 12th Ave Ste 150
tanagerplace.org
In- and outpatient psychiatric treatment, music and art therapy, in-school and in-house services, infant and early childhood enrichment and summer camps. Operates LGBTQ+ Center inside the Estle Center
Above + Beyond Cancer
1305 50th St, West Des Moines
aboveandbeyondcancer.org
Free, evidence-based fitness, meditation, nutrition, education and outdoor adventure programs for cancer patients, caregivers and locals
American Brawn
106 14the Ave, Grinnell
americanbrawn.us, 641-821-5134
Supports suicide prevention efforts for veterans, active military and first responders
Community Support Advocates
1516 Valley W Dr, West Des Moines
teamcsa.org, 515-883-1776
24/7 (non-crisis) line for mental health and disability resources: 515-288-0818
Outpatient mental health therapy, med management and assessments through Integrated Behavioral Health Clinic. Provides other services for Polk County youth and adults with mental health conditions or disabilities, including Momentum Arts Program
Family Planning Council of Iowa
2900 Westown Pkwy, Ste 240, West Des Moines
fpcouncil.org, 515-288-9028
Education and access to contraceptives, reproductive healthcare providers, STI testing and resources for pregnancy and domestic abuse, regardless of identity or ability to pay
Primary Health Care
Locations in Ames, Des Moines (four + three school-based clinics), Marshalltown and Urbandale
phciowa.org
Medical and dental care, regardless of insurance, immigration status or ability to pay. Operates Homeless Support Services in Polk County
Puppy Jake Foundation
3101 104th St #2, Urbandale
puppyjakefoundation.org, 515-777-2837
Pairs veterans with professionally trained service dogs
Young Women’s Resource Center
818 5th Ave, Des Moines
ywrc.org, 515-244-4901
After-school programs, counseling and a Young Moms program for girls and women aged 10-24 (trans and nonbinary inclusive). Free, confidential, voluntary
The housing crisis
Project Iowa
projectiowa.org
In-person and online career training courses and job placement assistance
Community Housing Initiatives
210 2nd St SE, Cedar Rapids
chihousing.com, 319-362-1020
Oversees affordable housing developments in more than 30 Iowa communities. Helps residents meet basic needs
Crowded Closet
851 Hwy 6 E, #101, Iowa City
crowdedcloset.org
Nonprofit thrift shop supporting global and local relief efforts by the Mennonite Central Committee
Domestic Violence Intervention Program & Rape Victim Advocacy Program
dvipiowa.org
DVIP 24-hour hotline: 800-373-1043, RVAP: 800-228-1625
Free and confidential resources for victim-survivors across eight Iowa counties. Operates three emergency shelters and a pet kennel. Offers adult and child counseling, criminal justice and court advocacy. Sponsors Johnson County Human Trafficking Coalition
Four Oaks
5400 Kirkwood Blvd SW, Cedar Rapids
fouroaks.org, 319-364-0259
Works with Affordable Housing Network, Inc. to provide safe, sustainable housing, therapy services, foster care support and more to prevent child trauma
Houses into Homes
401 6th Ave, Coralville
housesintohomes.org, 319-435-1075
Free gently used beds, furniture and household items for people in Johnson County leaving homelessness, domestic violence and other crisis situations
InsideOut Reentry
804 S Capitol St, Iowa City
insideoutreentry.com
Works with individuals incarcerated throughout the state to help them develop re-entry plans, regardless of where they plan to live after release. Offers Life Skills classes, Housing and Employment Readiness programs
Iowa City Mutual Aid
icmutualaid.org
Anti-capitalist and abolitionist mutual aid collective. Provides material support to houseless neighbors in Iowa City and material, emotional and court support to queer incarcerated Iowans
Matthew 25
201 3rd Ave SW, Cedar Rapids
matthew-25.org, 319-362-2214
Conducts home repairs and builds sustainable, low-income houses. Offers a Tool Library
Shelter House
429 Southgate Ave, Iowa City
shelterhouseiowa.org, 319-351-0326
Operates a 70-bed emergency shelter, four homes, 60 supportive units, employment assistance and mental health recovery
T.R.A.I.L. of Johnson County
28 S Linn St, Room 301, Iowa City
trailofjohnsoncounty.org, 319-800-9003
Tools and Resources for Active Independent Living: Membership-based program for seniors in Johnson County supporting affordable housing communities, including transportation, home services, healthcare navigation and social opportunities
Anawim Housing
1750 48th St Suite 100B, Des Moines
anawimhousing.org, 515-244-8308
Largest provider of permanent supportive housing in Iowa. Develops and manages affordable housing and homeless support services in Polk County
The Beacon
Des Moines, thebeacondm.org
Housing, counseling and community for unhoused and otherwise vulnerable adults who identify as women. Also offers free food, rent assistance and career training
Creative Visions Human Development Institute
1343 13th St, Des Moines
cvonline.us, 515-244-4003
Works to break cycles of poverty and violence through education and job assistance, a food pantry, family arts programs, community forums and the Crime Victim’s Advocacy Program
Des Moines Mutual Aid
iowamutualaid.org/des-moines-mutual-aid
Abolitionist mutual aid collective. Partners with like-minded local groups on a rent relief fund, bail fund, weekly free grocery distro, and support for houseless neighbors, material and court
Des Moines Black Liberation Movement
dsmblm.org
Collective action to fight systems of white supremacy. DSM Rent Relief Fund (with Des Moines Mutual Aid; assists with bills, emergency housing, etc.), Black Children’s Memorial, an annual Juneteenth Celebration
Dress for Success Des Moines
7025 Hickman Road, Ste 3, Urbandale
desmoines.dressforsuccess.org, 515-288-0130
Free professional development and attire for unemployed and underemployed women. Partners with The Beacon
HOME, Inc.
1618 6th Ave, Des Moines
homeincdsm.org, 515-243-1277
HUD-certified Housing Counseling Agency and Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO). Obtains and maintains affordable housing and support in Des Moines
Joppa
2326 Euclid Ave, Des Moines
joppa.org, 515-288-5699
Weekly outreach to hundreds of unhoused and newly housed locals, providing food, essentials and resources for employment, mental health and socialization. Collects donated clothing and items via Thriftmart
Learn more about the work of Joppa and YSS (below):
Renewed Hope Home Furnishings
306 Park St, Grinnell
renewedhope.grinnellfriends.org, 641-236-6412
Free home furnishings, including delivery, for locals in a 15-mile radius
Second Mile Thrift Shop
515 3rd Ave, Grinnell
secondmilegrinnell.org, 641-236-7892
Low-cost clothing, household and furniture items
YSS (Youth & Shelter Services, Iowa Homeless Youth Centers)
yss.org, 515-232-4YSS
Emergency shelter, addiction treatment, crisis stabilization, rent assistance, mental health and food support, after-school and summer programs, education and career resources, and more across 11 locations throughout central Iowa
Food access
Cakes From The Heart
Marion, facebook.com/cakesfromtheheartiowa
Partners with community organizations to provide personalized cakes or cupcakes to Linn, Jackson and Johnson County locals with financial barriers on special occasions
CommUnity Food Bank
1045 Highway 6 East, Iowa City
builtbycommunity.org, 319-351-0128
Free and confidential groceries, hygiene products, baby supplies and more
Convivium Urban Farmstead
2811 Jackson St, Dubuque
convivium-dbq.com, 563-557-2900
A dense urban farm with a community garden, free casserole program and food education classes, supported by a restaurant onsite
Learn more about the org:
Coralville Community Food Pantry
804 13th Ave, Coralville
coralvillefoodpantry.org, 319-337-3663
Weekly food assistance for Coralville, Tiffin and Oxford residents
Food Pantry at Iowa
IMU Room G200
basicneeds.uiowa.edu/food-pantry, 319-335-1162
Serves University of Iowa students and community members
Field to Family
1051 US-6, Iowa City
fieldtofamily.org, 319-855-2649
Procures local food for school lunch menus, supports school gardens, provides education on food systems, connects local growers with local consumers
Grow: Johnson County
4811 Melrose Ave, Iowa City
growjohnsoncounty.org, 319-622-3264
A six-acre farm growing fresh fruit and vegetables for Johnson County food pantries. Offers seasonal apprenticeships and youth programming
Hawkeye Area Community Action Program
hacap.org
A Feeding America-affiliated food bank serving nine counties: Benton, Dubuque, Delaware, Iowa, Jackson, Johnson, Jones, Linn and Washington
IC Compassion
1035 Wade St, Iowa City
iccompassion.org, 319-330-9883
Hosts 100+ garden plots at the Johnson County Historic Poor Farm for families to grow a diverse range of crops. Operates a food pantry on Wednesdays and Jabez Cafe. Also provides low-cost legal immigration services, mental health counseling for refugees and ESL tutoring
Iowa City Free Lunch Program
1105 Gilbert Ct, Ste 100, Iowa City
iowacityfreelunch.org, 319-337-6283
Filling, healthy free lunches served no-questions-asked, Mon-Sat, 12-1 p.m.
Learn more about the org:
Matthew 25
201 3rd Ave SW, Cedar Rapids
matthew-25.org, 319-362-2214
Tends an urban farm with community gardens and gathering space. Operates Iowa’s first pay-it-forward cafe (Groundswell Cafe, 201 3rd Ave NW, CR), and sells affordable produce in a former food desert (Cultivate Hope Corner Store, 604 Ellis Blvd NW). Offers discounted CSA, youth food camps and more
North Liberty Community Food Pantry
350 W Penn St, North Liberty
nlcpantry.org, 319-626-2711
Free groceries and clothing for North Liberty and rural Johnson County residents. Opened new building in summer 2025
Northeast Iowa Food Bank
1605 Lafayette St, Waterloo
neifb.org, 319-235-0507
Operates Cedar Valley Food Pantry, a mobile food pantry and 13 Kids Cafes. Distributes food to 130+ other food assistance orgs
River Bend Food Bank
4010 Kimmel Dr, Davenport
3145 Cedar Crest Ridge, Dubuque
876 W Main St, Ste B, Galesburg, Illinois
riverbendfoodbank.org
Rescues, stores and distributes nutritious food through more than 400 partners in 23 counties. Outreach to students, seniors, SNAP beneficiaries and food deserts
Table to Table
Pepperwood Plaza, 1049 US-6 E, Iowa City
table2table.org, 319-337-3400
Recovers and redistributes food that would’ve gone to waste, supporting eastern Iowa food pantries and other partner orgs
The Bridge Home
225 S Kellogg Ave, Ames
thebridgehome.org, 515-232-8075
Shelter, food and support services for unhoused individuals and families
Eat Greater Des Moines
501 SW 7th St, Ste G, Des Moines
eatgreaterdesmoines.org, 515-207-8908
Operates dozens of community fridges throughout Polk, Dallas and Warren counties. Rescues food everywhere from farm fields to grocery stores. Operates Eat Greater Des Moines Food Rescue app
Food Bank of Iowa
2220 E 17th St, Des Moines
705 W Main St, Ottumwa
foodbankiowa.org
Supports food pantries throughout central and southeast Iowa, including 150 school pantries in 43 counties. Runs the BackPack Program, providing food-insecure kids with meals over weekends
Learn more about the challenges currently facing Food Bank of Iowa, HACAP and Northeast Iowa Food Bank:
Forest Ave Outreach
334 Forest Ave, Des Moines
forestaveoutreach.org
Community orchard and garden serving a food desert. Youth outreach in outdoor classroom
The Iowa Kitchen
theiowakitchen.org
Food distribution and education geared toward young adults in the Grinnell community. Free meals served once a week. Supported by the restaurant Relish
Johnston Partnership for a Healthy Community
5870 Merle Hay Rd, Ste C, Johnston
johnstonpartnership.org, 515-528-2379
Free food assistance, personal care items and clothing (must show ID). Customizes meals by family size and dietary needs. Weekend food support for Johnston School District students
Meals from the Heartland
357 Lincoln St, West Des Moines
mealsfromtheheartland.org, 515-473-9530
Faith-based org fighting child hunger in Iowa and globally. Packages and distributes protein-dense food in Iowa, utilizing large network of distributors
Mid-Iowa Community Action
1001 S 18th Ave, Marshalltown
micaonline.org, 641-752-7162
Community action fighting poverty in central Iowa through almost 30 programs focused on distinct needs, including food, water, heat, health and disaster assistance.
The Pet Project
4944 Franklin Ave, Ste N, Des Moines
thepetprojectmidwest.org, 515-727-4738
Food and supplies for struggling pet owners; supports statewide network to reunite lost and found animals
St. Vincent de Paul Society of Des Moines
1426 6th Ave and 500 Army Post Rd, Des Moines
svdpdsm.org
Free food and clothing at both locations. Also offers career training, job search and reentry services
Supply Hive
Des Moines, thesupplyhivedsm.org
Flexible mutual aid org supporting marginalized locals. Partners with Eat Greater Des Moines to rescue food from local grocers to supply community fridges. Raises funds and holds drives to help individuals retain housing, childcare and essential supplies
Urban Bicycle Food Ministry of Des Moines
Capitol Hill Lutheran Church, 511 Des Moines St, Des Moines
ubfmdsm.com
Weekly distribution of burritos, sandwiches and supplies directly to unhoused locals, via bicycle or vehicle delivery. Community-based and non-denominational
Learn more about the org:
Urbandale Food Pantry
7611 Douglas Ave, Stes 34-35, Urbandale
urbandalefoodpantry.org, 515-251-6688
Free food and personal care items in the Des Moines metro (must show ID). Customizes meals by family size and dietary needs. Rescues food from local grocers
Valley Community Center — Project Impact
4444 Fuller Rd, West Des Moines
valleycommunity.center/projectimpact
Food assistance for at-risk individuals and families in the Des Moines metro, including weekend meals for students. Also distributes school supplies, winter clothing and diapers
Women Food & Ag Network
Ames, wfan.org
Member-based group of women and nonbinary farmers, land stewards, urban gardeners, environmental advocates, etc. providing mentorship, language access and storytelling events from an anti-racist, eco-feminist, trans-inclusive perspective
The environment
Iowa Audubon
iowaaudubon.org
Education and advocacy for Iowa birds. Identifies and protects important bird habitats around the state, e.g. tallgrass prairie
Learn more about the org:
Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement (CCI)
2001 Forest Ave, Des Moines
iowacci.org, 515-255-0800
Organizes campaigns against factory farms and CO2 pipelines; operates a Nitrate Watch program. Advocates on behalf of renters, mobile homeowners, immigrants, victims of racial profiling and the uninsured
Learn more about Nitrate Watch:
Iowa Environmental Council
505 5th Ave #850, Des Moines
iaenvironment.org, 515-244-1194
A nonpartisan coalition advocating for environmental protections in public policy
Iowa Interfaith Power & Light
505 5th Ave, Des Moines
iowaipl.org, 515-689-1112
Gathers farmers, students, rural faith leaders and others to discuss and advocate for climate action
Iowa Chapter of The Nature Conservancy
nature.org/iowa, 515-244-5044
Education and promotion of science-driven sustainable agricultural practices to protect water and land
Learn about TNC’s Trailblazers Academy for prescribed fire specialists:
The Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation
505 Fifth Ave, Ste 444, Des Moines
inhf.org, 515-288-184
Protects and maintains nearly 200,000 acres of Iowa prairie, woodland and waterways. Creates multi-use trails in natural areas
Iowa Rivers Revival
iowarivers.org, 515-635-5586
Statewide, nonpartisan org working to protect and restore rivers and streams
Iowa Chapter of the Sierra Club
3839 Merle Hay Rd #280, Des Moines
sierraclub.org/iowa, 515-277-8868
Part of the nation’s oldest and largest grassroots environmental org. Advocacy and lobbying focused solely in Iowa
Iowa Water Project
iowawaterproject.org
Strategically places natural dams and aquatic plants to improve streams and wetlands statewide
Iowa Wildlife Federation
301 Grand Ave, Des Moines
iawildlife.org, 515-419-1839
Statewide, membership-based org. Helps locals create Certified Wildlife Habitats of unmowed, protected green space. Supports the University of Iowa’s School of the Wild, an accredited environmental education program for youth
Bur Oak Land Trust
5 Sturgis Corner Dr, Ste 1250, Iowa City
buroaklandtrust.org, 319-338-7030
Maintains roughly a dozen biodiverse land reserves, many open to the public year-round
Cedar Valley Humane Society
7411 Mt Vernon Rd SE, Cedar Rapids
cvhumane.org, 319-362-6288
Shelters animals as long as it takes to get them adopted. Low adoption fees. Operates a pet food pantry; supplies pet food for five pantries around the region
Indian Creek Nature Center
5300 Otis Rd SE, Cedar Rapids
indiancreeknaturecenter.org, 319-362-0664
A sustainable, solar-powered facility on 500 acres of preserved wetlands, prairies, woodlands and trails
Iowa Farm Sanctuary
1696 250th St NW, Oxford
iowafarmsanctuary.org, 319-329-0205
Vegan-run safe haven for rescued farm animals. Funds major veterinary procedures for its residents. Responds to emergency calls involving farm animals, e.g. semi accidents and natural disasters
Learn more about the org:
Iowa Humane Alliance
6540 6th St SW, Cedar Rapids
iowahumanealliance.org, 319-363-1225
Affordable, accessible spay-neuter services in eastern Iowa
Iowa Parrot Rescue
2479 Golden Ave, Letts
iowaparrotrescue.org, 319-344-1700
Shelters, rehabilitates and adopts out parrots
IowaProjectAWARE
iowaprojectaware.org
Marion-based org that hosts a massive, weeklong river cleanup each summer, integrated with education around environmental science, geology, Iowa history and more. Recycles more than 80 percent of trash pulled from water
The R.A.R.E. Group
3305 Hwy 1 SW Ste 29a, Iowa City
theraregroup.org, 319-248-9770
Raptor rehabilitation and education. Completely volunteer-run clinic provides rescue, triage and long-term medical treatment
Trees Forever
80 W 8th Ave, Marion
treesforever.org, 800-369-1269
Organizes tree-planting projects to protect waterways and roadsides. Part of ReLeaf Cedar Rapids plan to restore tree canopy lost to 2020 derecho, and the Iowa Urban Tree Council. Education on treekeeping, invasive species, agroforestry and more
Wildthunder Wildlife & Animal Rehabilitation & Sanctuary
2584 Henley Ave, Independence
wildthunderwars.org, 319-961-3352
Licensed wildlife rehabilitation center and animal shelter with volunteer caretakers. Treats injured wildlife and homeless pets, including raptors, reptiles, mammals and exotic animals
Learn more about the org:
100Grannies
100grannies.org
Iowa City-based member org of senior women demonstrating against factory farms, CO2 pipelines and unsustainable practices in Iowa
The Animal Rescue League of Iowa
5452 NE 22nd St, Des Moines, arl-iowa.org
Pet helpline: 515-473-9122
Behavior helpline: 515-262-9503
Iowa’s largest nonprofit animal shelter. Offers short-term crisis care for families with pets. Animal Welfare and Response Team investigates abuse and cruelty statewide. Operates a cat trap-neuter-return program in Des Moines and a twice-monthly pet food pantry, among other initiatives
Bailing Out Benji
2521 University Blvd, Ste 123, Ames
bailingoutbenji.com
Investigates and researches commercial breeders, puppy mills, pet stores and online sellers. Advocates for responsible pet adoption. Provides a national database of puppy mills. Operates the Central Iowa Pet Food Pantry
Iowa Bird Rehabilitation
3108 49th St, Des Moines
iowabirdrehab.org, 515-207-5008
Volunteer-based wildlife rehab center for sick, injured or orphaned wild birds
Kiya Koda Humane Society
1206 N Jefferson Way, Indianola
kiyakoda.com, 515-961-7080
No-kill animal shelter taking in, and adopting out, stray dogs and cats
Practical Farmers of Iowa
1615 Golden Aspen Dr, Ste 101, Ames
practicalfarmers.org, 515-232-5661
Programs to incentivize and support farming practices that reduce nitrogen, improve soil and conserve wildlife habitats. Helps farms transition from old to new generations of farmers/owners. Farmer-led research. Spanish-language resources
Education & justice
ACLU of Iowa
505 5th Ave, Des Moines
aclu-ia.org, 515-243-3576
Files lawsuits and amicus briefs challenging violations of civil liberties in Iowa by the government. Know-your-rights resources in English and Spanish. Legislative advocacy on a range of progressive issues
Learn more about a few of the org’s recent legal battles:
Escucha Mi Voz
113 S Johnson St, Iowa City
escuchamivozia.org, facebook.com/escuchamivozia, 319-321-8664
Immigrant and refugee rights advocacy, providing information in 10 languages. Plans demonstrations and works with individuals to prepare for and cope with immigration enforcement
Learn more about the org:
Great Plains Action Society
greatplainsaction.org
Indigenous-run org fighting the effects of colonial-capitalism in the Midwest, including pipelines, unsustainable ag practices, anti-CRT and anti-reproductive choice laws, and the prevalence of missing and murdered Indigenous people. Founded and directed by Iowa-based Sikowis Nobiss
HOPE Foundation Iowa
hopefoundpal.org
thehopefoundationiowa.org
Works with Iowans for Palestine, Iowa City Action for Palestine and other groups to raise local awareness and humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza
Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice
iowammj.org, 515-255-980
Statewide, membership-based immigrant and refugee advocacy and legal services organization
Iowa Safe Schools
iowasafeschools.org, 515-381-0588
Anti-bullying and discrimination support for LGBTQ students. Operates the GSA Network, providing resources for GSA clubs in schools across Iowa (plus parents and educators). Advocates for legislation banning conversion therapy and trans/gay panic defenses
Learn more about GSAs:
One Iowa
oneiowa.org, 515-288-4019
Training for healthcare providers, businesses and others on issues facing LGBTQ Iowans. Mentorship and resources. Works to shape local and state policies affecting LGBTQ Iowans via One Iowa Action, a 501(c)(4). Statewide, Des Moines-based
Catherine McAuley Center
1220 5th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids
cmc-cr.org, 319-363-4993
ESL, U.S. Citizenship exam, High School Equivalency Test and basic skills tutoring for adults, in person or online. Services for refugees and migrants, including employment, healthcare, housing (in particular for women), childcare and legal. Food pantry (M-F, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.) and a community garden
Corridor Community Action Network
corridorcan.com
Organizes locals in Cedar Rapids, Coralville, Tiffin, North Liberty and Iowa City for service projects, letter-writing campaigns and community events
Read about CCAN’s Transgender Day of Visibility events in Iowa City (expanded to seven days in 2025):
IC Compassion
1035 Wade St, Iowa City
iccompassion.org, 319-330-9883
DOJ-authorized, low-cost immigration legal services. Operates Refugee Counseling Center Center, a Wednesday food pantry (12-5 p.m.) and Jabez Cafe, employing special needs young adults from immigrant families. Global Food Project connects new Johnson County residents with community garden plots
The James Gang
450 Hwy 1 W #126, Iowa City
jamesgangic.com
Entrepreneurial org working to initiate and grow community projects in the areas of creativity and service
Prairielands Freedom Fund
prairielandsfreedomfund.org, 319-535-2209
Formerly Eastern Iowa Community Bond Project. Pays immigration bond, protester bail and pretrial bail for young advocates
Refugee and Immigrant Association
refugeeimmigrant.org, 319-491-3486
Academic and social support for refugee youth in Johnson and Linn counties. Organizes school transportation program, Refugee Women Empowerment Program and a multilingual newspaper, Refugee and Immigrant News
United Action for Youth
1700 S 1st Ave #14, Iowa City
355 Iowa Ave, Iowa City
unitedactionforyouth.org, 319-338-7518
Runaway and homeless youth services, trauma-informed crisis intervention/mediation, transitional living assistance, counseling, art events and social opportunities for young people and families in Johnson County
1619 Freedom School
325 E Park Ave, Ste 204, Waterloo
1619freedomschool.org, 319-427-0314
Free, community-based, after-school literacy program for students to improve reading skills while learning Black American history
DSM Queer Youth Resource Center
instagram.com/qyrcenter
Inclusive events for LGBTQ2SIA+ youth. Hosts Safe Space Prom, an All Ages Variety Show, the skating festival Pride in Motion, queer movie nights, drag shows and art shows
Everybody Wins! Iowa
Walnut Street School #315, 901 Walnut St, Des Moines
everybodywinsiowa.org, 515-277-7590
One-on-one reading and mentoring with schoolkids and volunteers
Iowa Asian Alliance
6919 Vista Dr, Des Moines
iowaasianalliance.com
Unites diverse Asian, Asian American and Pacific Islander communities with the purpose of fostering economic growth and broader community development within the state of Iowa
Read about a special event at IAA’s 20205 CelebrAsian festival:
Latino Resources
4217 University Ave Ste 1, Des Moines
latinoheritagefestival.org
Serves as the umbrella to the Des Moines Latino Heritage Festival, which has the distinction of not only being the largest Latino Festival in the state, but the largest cultural event in the state of Iowa
Read 2 Lead of Poweshiek County
read2lead.info
Free books and evidence-based programs to promote early literacy. Partners include Books for MICA and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Skate DSM
skatedsm.org
Gives away hundreds of free skateboards and helmets in central Iowa through Get On Board Project. Offers scholarships for their skateboard lessons and camps
Learn more about the org:
Queen Sisterz Organization
Urbandale, facebook.com/venticawoods
515-735-1141
Scholarships, networking and empowerment programs for local youth, especially Black youth
ARTS NONPROFITS
When in doubt, inquire about…
- Organization(s) supporting your favorite community venue
- Historical societies in your area
- Local cultural and historical centers
- Your local senior center
- Arts programs offered by your local school district, college or university
I want my dollars to support nonprofit…
Music, theater and dance
Cedar Falls Community Theatre
103 Main St, Cedar Falls
mycfct.org, 319-277-5283
Local theater productions at the historic Oster Regent Theatre
City Circle Theatre Company
1301 5th St, Coralville
coralvillearts.org
Musical and play productions for local teens and adults. Performs at the Coralville Center for the Performing Arts
Class Act Productions (CAP Theatre)
201 1st Ave S, Altoona
captheatre.org, 515-967-7950
Theatrical productions by and for children and young adults, including plays, musicals, improv, summer camps and monthly theater workshops
CSPS
1103 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids
cspshall.org, 319-364-1580
Presents live performers and art exhibitions at the historic CSPS Hall, with an emphasis on new and diverse voices.
Read a review of an event from June:
Dreamwell Theatre
dreamwell.com, 319-423-9820
Community theater organization in Iowa City. Co-hosts the annual QueertopIA variety show benefiting Iowa Trans Mutual Aid Fund
Read a review of Dreamwell’s Design for a Living from February 2025:
Eastern Iowa Arts Academy
2630 B Ave NE, Cedar Rapids
easterniowaartsacademy.org, 319-350-1805
Afterschool arts programming in eastern Iowa with a focus on equity and accessibility. Currently fundraising to transform the former Arthur Elementary School to offer studio spaces for kids and adults, band rooms for their Rock Academy program, instrument and equipment rental, a community room with a food pantry and clothing closet, a sensory room for students with autism and special needs, and more.
The Englert Theatre
221 E Washington St, Iowa City
englert.org, 319-688-2653
Arts presenter in a historic downtown theater with programs to attract a diverse range of performers to Iowa City, platform local artists and prompt community discussions
Read a review from the Englert’s Infinite Dream festival in September:
Iowa City Community Theatre
iowacitycommunitytheatre.org, 319-338-0443
Community theater organization producing plays and musicals. Invites prospective directors to submit ideas for the upcoming season
Midwest Old Threshers
405 E Thresher Rd, Mt. Pleasant
oldthreshers.org, 319-385-8937
Entertainment and education designed to celebrate agricultural heritage. Hosts the annual Midwest Old Threshers Reunion in September; maintains Mt. Pleasant’s Theatre Museum of Repertoire Americana
Open Heartland
3 E Benton St, Iowa City
openheartland.org
Resources and advocacy for immigrants via community events. Hosts a Children’s Folklorico dance troupe, weekly Loteria at Big Grove and more
Orchestra Iowa
119 3rd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids
artsiowa.com/orchestra-iowa, 319-366-8203
Century-old symphony orchestra committed to accessibility
Read a review of a May concert:
Prairie Music Association
401 76th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids
prairiemusic.com
Music booster club serving the College Community School District in Linn and Johnson County
Quad City Music Guild
1584 34th Ave, Moline, Illinois
qcmusicguild.com, 309-762-6610
Community musical theater productions and QCMC Youth Chorus performances in the historic Prospect Park pavilion. Opens their Costume Shoppe to the public the first Saturday of each month
Revival Theatre Company
329 10th Ave SE Ste 005, Cedar Rapids
revivaltheatrecompany.com
Professional musical theater company producing classical and contemporary pieces
Read a review of a production from June:
Riverside Theatre
119 E College St, Iowa City
riversidetheatre.org, 319-887-1360
Professional theater company that hosts production talkbacks, a conversation series, a Playmaker Project for 3rd-6th grade playwrights and more
Read a review of a production from October:
Summer of the Arts
319 E 1st St, Iowa City
summerofthearts.org, 319-337-7944
Hosts a range of free, family-friendly events in Iowa City, including the Iowa Arts Festival, Iowa City Jazz Festival, the Friday Night Concert Series and the Holiday Thieves Market (Dec. 6-7 in Coralville)
Theatre Cedar Rapids
102 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids
theatrecr.org, 319-366-8591
Century-old professional theater company producing musicals and plays. Offers TCR Summer Camps. In the home stretch of a capital campaign to renovate and modernize five levels of its historic home, the Iowa Theatre Building
Waterloo Community Playhouse/Black Hawk Children’s Theatre
224 Commercial St, Waterloo
wcpbhct.org, 319-235-0367
Theater education and entertainment opportunities for Cedar Valley locals since 1916
Willow Creek Theatre Company
327 S Gilbert St, Iowa City
willowcreektheatre.org
Professional improv troupe hosting plays, musicals, stand up and live music. Now presents the Floodwater Comedy Festival (Nov. 14 and 15)
Young Footliters Youth Theatre
coralvillearts.org
Plays and musicals for kid casts, crews and audiences. Hosts a Traveling Playhouse of theater camps across Iowa
Ankeny Community Theatre
1932 SW 3rd Street, Ankeny
ankenycommunitytheatre.com, 515-244-2771
Live entertainment and participation opportunities for the local community
Des Moines Arts Festival
desmoinesartsfestival.org
Presents the annual, free Des Moines Arts Festival as well as the Interrobang Film Festival and local arts awards
Des Moines Community Playhouse
831 42nd St, Des Moines
dmplayhouse.com, 515-277-6261
Century-old community theater staging plays and musicals, with classes, ensembles and programs aimed at local students, seniors, preschoolers and more
Read a review of a production from July:
Des Moines Performing Arts
desmoinesperformingarts.org, 515-246-2300
Presents a range of professional entertainment and local theater productions across four venues: Des Moines Civic Center, the black box Stoner Theater, Cowles Commons and Temple Theater
Des Moines Young Artists’ Theatre
4801 Franklin Ave, Ste 1163, Des Moines
dmyat.org
Play and musical productions by and for local students and families. Offers design apprenticeships
Read a review of a DMYAT production from May:
George Daily Community Auditorium
1800 N 3rd St, Oskaloosa
georgedaily.org, 641-672-0799
Mahaska County arts presenter and venue with in-house regional theater company. Supported by Friends of the Auditorium
Girls Rock! Des Moines
girlsrockdsm.org
Music camps, after-school programs, lessons, jam sessions, concerts and recording opportunities for girls, women and nonbinary folks. LGBTQ+ friendly. Offers free Instrument Library and Iowa City area programming
Iowa Stage Theatre Company
221 Walnut St, Des Moines
iowastage.org, 515-309-025
Theater company of local, resident artists committed to anti-racist productions. Shows at Stoner Theater
Read a review of an ISTC production from October:
Newton Community Theatre
1701 S 8th Ave E, Newton
newtontheatre.com, 641-792-1230
Theatrical opportunities for locals of all ages and backgrounds, cast and crew
Story Theater Company
1609 Golden Aspen Dr #105, Ames
storytheatercompany.org
Theater workshops, camps and productions for area children, ages 5-18. Shows at Ames City Auditorium
Tallgrass Theatre Company
2019 Grand Ave Ste 100, West Des Moines
tallgrasstheatre.org, 515-518-0658
Community theater presenter and venue. Offers theater workshops and summer camps for young locals through its Seedlings Children’s Theatre
Literature and film
Antelope Lending Library
450 Hwy 1 W #126, Iowa City
antelopelendinglibrary.org, 319-343-6872
Independent, no-fee mobile book library. Collaborates on events to promote literacy, climate action and more. Offers adult ELL classes on Thursday evenings (childcare provided) in partnership with Open Heartland. Member of The James Gang
Brink Literary
450 Hwy 1 W #126, Iowa City
brinkliterary.com
Literary journal platforming cross-genre creatives from a diverse range of backgrounds
Cinema Fairfield
200 N Main St, Fairfield
facebook.com/cinema.fairfield, 641-472-2000
Screens new and classic films, including local work
Iowa City Poetry
450 Hwy 1 W #126, Iowa City
iowacitypoetry.com
Workshops, readings, open mics and more. Includes the IC Speaks spoken word program. Hosts the Mic Check Poetry Fest (Nov. 13-15). Offers Poetry Lending Library inside the PS1 Close House
Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature
iowacityofliterature.org
Manages Iowa City’s UN Creative Cities Network membership. Hosts the annual Iowa City Book Festival, Lit Walk, One Book Two Book Festival, Music IC series and other lit-centric events and resources
Porchlight Literary Arts Center
porchlightliterary.org
Hosts and promotes readings, community salons, free writing workshops and more in eastern Iowa. Offers Iowa Writer’s Residency and DIY Retreats
PromptPress
promptpress.org
Iowa City-based publisher and producer of collaborative arts projects, including an annual artist book stemming from a social justice prompt, a gallery series, performances and a teen book project. Member of The James Gang
FilmScene
404 E College St Ste 100, Iowa City
118 E College St, Iowa City
icfilmscene.org, 319-358-2555
Independent cinema with two locations hosting new, classic, foreign, historic and early release films. Hosts filmmaker and expert dialogues, free outdoor screenings, low-cost special series (family films, films with LGBTQ+ and disability representation, etc.), summer camps and the Refocus Film Festival
Read takeaways from the 2025 Refocus Film Festival:
Annie’s Foundation
5619 NW 86th St, Ste 700, Johnston
anniesfoundation.com
Parent-run org working in opposition to book censorship and discrimination in central Iowa school districts. Holds events to increase access to diverse, challenged books
The Iowa Theater
121 N John Wayne Dr, Winterset
the-iowa.com, 515-462-2979
Restored turn-of-the-century cinema and performance space screening new releases, classics, foreign films and local work
Learn more about this and other indie cinemas:
The Varsity Cinema
1207 25th St, Des Moines
varsitydesmoines.com, 515-259-0167
A historic cinema operated by the nonprofit Des Moines Film showing new, classic and special film screenings. Hosts dialogues, an Open Screen Night for local filmmakers, summer camps and more
An annual festival that now benefits the Varsity:
Artist collectives
Arts IC/ArtiFactory
120 N Dubuque St, Iowa City
artifactory.artsiowacity.org
Arts education, exhibition and collaboration opportunities in Iowa City
Farmhouse Art Collective
1301 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids
farmhouseartcollective.org
Inclusive, multi-purpose, multi-disciplinary community art space. Free and inexpensive opportunities to learn about, create, exhibit, publish and sell art
Public Space One
538 S Gilbert St, Iowa City
publicspaceone.com, 319-855-1985
Artist-led, community-driven contemporary art center with three public locations in Iowa City. Provides space for exhibitions, artist residencies, a Media Arts Co-op, the Center for Afrofuturist Studies and the Iowa LGBTQ Archives and Library
Learn more about Pokey’s Fest, hosted at PS1 in June:
Wright House of Fashion
910 S Gilbert St, Iowa City
wrighthousefashion.com, 319-541-9790
Humanize My Hoodie designer Andre Wright’s community space for underrepresented creatives, sustainable fashion, workshops, talks and a community fridge. Hosts the Beyond Fashion Fest
Learn about this spring’s fest:
Maquoketa Art Experience
124 S Main St, Maquoketa
maquoketa-art.org, 563-652-9925
Hosts regular performances, workshops, art and history discussions, readings, craft shows, artist receptions and more in downtown Maquoketa
237 Collective
329 10th Ave SE Gallery 217, Cedar Rapids
instagram.com/237collective
Community art workshops, fashion shows, exhibitions, clothing swaps and more
Read a review of an April fashion show:
ArtForce Iowa
artforceiowa.org, 515-777-3182
Runs Pathways arts programs for court-involved youth; Heroes trauma-informed programs for refugee, immigrant and first-generation locals; sensory-based art exhibitions; public art projects and more
City Voices Des Moines
4001 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines
cityvoicesdesmoines.org, 515-681-6234
Free, individualized music instruction for underserved students in Des Moines Public Schools
Mainframe Studios
900 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines
mainframestudios.org, 515-216-4253
Claims title of largest nonprofit building for creative workspaces in the U.S. Hosts art workshops. First Friday events each month are free and open to the public
Read a review of May’s First Friday:
Momentum Artist Collective
Mainframe Studios 109 & 103 (900 Keosauqua Way), Des Moines
momentumartistcollective.org, 515-669-4821
Free studio space and mentorship for artists with disabilities and mental health conditions
Museums
African American Museum of Iowa
55 12th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids
blackiowa.org, 319-862-2101
Permanent and rotating exhibitions on the Underground Railroad, the civil rights movement, Black Iowa trailblazers and more. Gathers and preserves artifacts and oral histories. Hosts Juneteenth and other community events
Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
410 3rd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids
crma.org, 319-366-7503
Long-running art museum hosting art history talks. Maintains the historic Grant Wood Studio
Dubuque Museum of Art
1000 Jackson St, Dubuque
dbqart.org, 563-557-1851
Claims title of Iowa’s first cultural institution, established in 1874 by the Dubuque Art Association.
Figge Art Museum
225 W 2nd St, Davenport
figgeartmuseum.org, 563-326-7804
Mississippi River-adjacent building designed by architect David Chipperfield. Hosts art classes and camps
Read a review of the Figge’s 20th anniversary unveiling of Evanescent Field in May:
Mother Mosque of America Museum
1335 9th St NW, Cedar Rapids
mothermosque.org, 319 366-3150
The longest-standing purpose-built mosque in the U.S. An active mosque and Muslim-American history center. Visits open to anyone, by appointment only
Muscatine Art Center
1314 Mulberry Ave, Muscatine
muscatineartcenter.org, 563-263-8282
Museum and art gallery located in the historic Musser Mansion
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
1400 Inspiration Place SW, Cedar Rapids
ncsml.org, 319-362-8500
Smithsonian affiliate hosting permanent and rotating exhibitions, concerts, an Old World Christmas Market (Dec. 6 and 7) and much more in the historic Czech Village/New Bohemia district
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
350 E 3rd St, Dubuque
rivermuseum.org, 563-557-9545
Series of buildings, historical sites and a walkway, operated by the Dubuque County Historical Society. Promotes conservation. Provides rescue and rehab to wild reptiles and amphibians
Read LV coverage from 2024:
National Pearl Button Museum at the History & Industry Center
117 W 2nd St, Muscatine
muscatinehistory.org, 563-263-1052
Exhibits artifacts from Muscatine’s time as the “pearl button capital of the world” in the early 20th century. Offers free admission
Learn more:
Putnam Museum and Science Center
1717 W 12th St, Davenport
putnam.org, 563-324-1933
Smithsonian-affiliated; first established in 1867. Shows films. Expects to be first Iowa museum to display a complete dinosaur skeleton in 2027 (a triceratops)
Waterloo Center for the Arts
225 Commercial St, Waterloo
waterloocenterforthearts.org, 319-291-4490
Collects Midwest art, American decorative arts, Mexican folk art and the world’s largest public collection of Haitian art, among other permanent and rotating exhibitions. Hosts art classes and dialogues
Des Moines Art Center
4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines
desmoinesartcenter.org, 515-277-4405
Art museum that includes Papajohn Sculpture Park and studios for art classes
Iowa Quilt Museum
68 E Court Ave, Winterset
iowaquiltmuseum.org, 515-462-5988
American quilt history and exhibitions. Hosts the Iowa Quilt Festival (June 3-6, 2026): a three-day retreat culminating in a show throughout Winterset and on the Bridges of Madison County
Science Center of Iowa
401 W Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy, Des Moines
sciowa.org, 515-274-6868
Hands-on educational exhibits. Screens special films in their planetarium dome. Hosts statewide outreach programs and the SCI Preschool
Sioux City Art Center
225 Nebraska St, Sioux City
siouxcityartcenter.org, 712-279-6272
Collections of local and Midwest artists. Free admission. Hosts art classes and community events
Surf Ballroom and Museum
460 N Shore Dr, Clear Lake
surfballroom.com, 641-357-6151
Historic landmark and active entertainment venue with exhibitions celebrating the golden age of rock and roll
Learn more:
Don’t see your favorite org represented? Let LV know at editor@littlevillagemag.com. This article was originally published in Little Village’s November 2025 issue.
