Building Up the Community
Photo: Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity Builders Circle Co-Chairs Josh Cook, CEO of Community Choice Credit Union & Jenna Kimberley, Vice-President of Kimberley Development Corporation with Executive Director of GDM Habitat Lance Henning
“At the end of the day, it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished… It’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.” – Denzel Washington
Supporting our local community has always been principal within our Kimberley Development family. We understand that our community’s growth and success are dependent on its members, and we are extremely grateful to have the opportunity to make a difference. Even before our inception, we have recognized the value and significance of homeownership. This holds true especially for our Vice President, Jenna Kimberley. Jenna’s involvement in the Des Moines community is truly an inspiration. She supports our community in a variety of ways, but being a co-chair of the Builders Circle for the Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity (GDM Habitat) has a special place in her heart.
Along with co-chair Josh Cook, CEO of Community Choice Credit Union, Jenna is addressing an important need for affordable housing in the Central Iowa community. See more on this partnership and how you can get involved, in this months issue of BUILD Des Moines.
Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity
GDM Habitat has served and provided relief for more than 2,000 families since its founding in 1986. From the beginning, GDM Habitat has recognized the struggle for Greater Des Moines residents to find decent and affordable housing and, for this reason, its mission has served as its foundation: “Seeing to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope.”
In 2020, approximately 24,953 volunteer hours contributed to providing homeownership opportunities, repairs and community projects, and serving families in our community. As a nonprofit organization, GDM Habitat relies on volunteers and supporters who have a fervent desire to help others, and they welcome them from all different backgrounds.
Builders Circle
For those supporters who give a minimum of $2,500 or more per year, GDM Habitat has created a leadership giving society known as the Builders Circle. The Builders Circle began around five years ago and remains unparalleled in the Des Moines area. Members of Builders Circle play an essential role in generating critical charitable funds to provide financial education, home construction, community partnership, and program expansion.
One of the main functions of this group is to educate those who already believe in the importance of home ownership and providing suitable homes for all, no matter their income. It’s such a unique opportunity for like-minded people to come together and campaign for a cause they care about. To be a part of Builders Circle is not only an honor, but an incredible way to change lives and transform neighborhoods. Jenna has experienced this opportunity firsthand as a key member and co-chair of GDM Habitat’s Builders Circle.
The Mission
Jenna’s contribution and involvement with the Builders Circle team has not only impacted GDM Habitat, but it has also had a significant impact on her own life. Being able to see the tremendous effect GDM Habitat has on our community and its residents is the fuel to Jenna’s fiery passion of providing a place for people to call home. GDM Habitat’s mission goes hand-in-hand with her personal aspirations for the community and sets an incredible standard for Iowans to live up to.
If you’re looking to get involved, there are many ways to participate. Learn more about the Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity, its services, and how you can play an important role in building hope within our community.
As an ever-growing community, let us continue to give more than we take throughout our journey to make the Greater Des Moines area the best it can be. Because after all, it’s not about what you have, but rather what you have done for others.
