A Place for Every Family: Health, Fun, and Connection in our Parks and Trails

At Friends of Des Moines Parks, we believe that parks are fundamental to public health. We spoke with Laura Rehmer, a local chiropractor and mother of two, who sees the Des Moines trail system as essential to her family’s active lifestyle.

Laura has lived in Des Moines since 2008 and runs a private chiropractic practice near the Drake area. What started as an unplanned move quickly became a lifelong love for the city. As a highly active person, she found the local parks and trails became an essential part of her life, especially after she became a mother.

What initially got you interested in parks and trails?

"I have always been really active, but when I became a mom, the trails system became an everyday part of our lives. We’re really lucky here in Des Moines to have amazing parks and trails that are so well cared for, supported, and updated. As a parent, that consistent quality has been the most valuable thing for us."

As a healthcare provider, how do parks and trails add value to your family's life?

"As a chiropractor, I find being active a really important part of a healthy lifestyle, and I try to instill that for my kids. The parks are a way that we can be active together. I’m not just on the sidelines watching my kids play sports; we’re able to have some of our best talks and some of our best times together just out on the trails on our bikes and on a walk."

Can you share a specific memory or something funny that stands out from your time in the parks?

"Something funny always happens! But seriously, some of our best talks happen when we’re out on the trails or in a park.

I remember our first time going to a splash pad when my kids were very small. There was a family having lunch there, and my son just pulled a chair at the picnic table and started having lunch with them. I ended up seeing that mom again at a different park, and she said, 'I've been thinking about you guys!'

We actually became great friends just through that one interaction of moms being moms at the park with their kids."

What does the phrase 'Parks Are For Everyone' mean to you when you look at the diversity of users?

"It means everything. It is something that is free for everybody to use, and it’s accessible for kids and adults of all abilities. For example, my kids are not super sports-driven, so the parks are a really great way for us to be active without having to be involved with some organized sport.

I see lots of people walking their dogs and riding e-bikes, doing things that maybe they wouldn’t have had the opportunity to do otherwise. They are truly spaces where anyone can find their own way to be active and healthy."

Your Support Keeps Health and Community Thriving

Laura's story is a powerful reminder that parks are a critical part of our community’s infrastructure, supporting physical health, mental well-being, and social connection. Your donation ensures that the trails remain safe, clean, and accessible for every family—for parents, for kids, and for every neighbor seeking their own "prescription for joy."

Support the "Parks Are For Everyone" Campaign Today!

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