At Friends of Des Moines Parks, we believe the best way to understand the true impact of our parks, trails, and programs is through the voices of those who live, work, and play in them every day. This week, as part of our year-end "Parks Are For Everyone" campaign, we want to highlight a story from John Schmidt, a dedicated board member and long-time Des Moines resident, who shares his perspective on why our parks are so vital and what makes the work of Friends so special. Jo

At Friends of Des Moines Parks, we believe our trails and green spaces are more than just places for recreation—they are the essential infrastructure of our community life. To showcase this, we spoke with Michael Zimmerman , a local business owner, father, and active user of the Des Moines trail system. What initially drew you to the Des Moines trail system? "Being outside and on trails has always been a part of who I am. For a long time, trails meant recreation—getting my ex

For Andrea Boulton , an avid park user and dedicated member of the Friends of Des Moines Parks  board since 2021, the city’s green spaces aren't just amenities—they’re woven into the fabric of her life. From her days as a college student to her current role as a mom exploring with her young girls, Andrea's park journey has truly come "full circle." From College Runs to Family Hikes Andrea's history with Des Moines parks began when she arrived at Drake University for college.

Andy McCoy joined the Friends of Des Moines Park board in 2019 , bringing with him a deep-rooted passion for the city's green spaces. His...

Imagine a vibrant park, full of laughter and activity, appearing right in your neighborhood, no matter where you live. This vision is...

The joy of childhood is deeply intertwined with play. Beyond simple fun and laughter, play is fundamental to a child's development,...