Tyler's Contribution Grew by 50% Through Corporate Match Giving

At Friends of Des Moines Parks, we are constantly inspired by the commitment of our community. Tyler Weig, a dedicated resident and long-time park user, shares why he chose to make a deeply personal donation this year, how our parks have shaped his life, and the simple secret to maximizing his impact.

Tyler made Des Moines his home in 2005. He quickly realized the city’s unique charm and understood why it's often described as "America’s biggest small town." In the two decades since, he’s become a committed park advocate and user.

"I’ve spent the last 20 years exploring almost every corner of Des Moines’ parks and trails. I’ve biked miles of paths with the Dream Team as a volunteer, played countless rounds of disc golf as a member of the Disc Golf Century Club of Iowa, taken peaceful paddleboat rides on Gray’s Lake, and enjoyed quiet drives at sunset on perfect Iowa evenings. Des Moines’ parks and trails have shaped my daily life, my routines, and my sense of community—and they’ve been a meaningful part of what makes this city feel like home."

Q: What was your main reason for making a personal donation to the parks and trails this year?

"Donating to the Tim Lane Trail Stop this year was deeply personal for me. Tim and I were friends for nearly half my life—we met in 2005 during my internship at the Iowa Department of Public Health, and we clicked immediately. Simply put, Tim was a force of nature. Although we’ve lost him, honoring Tim with this trail stop feels like a perfect tribute to the energy, generosity, and good he poured into this community. It also creates a place where many of us can go to remember him, reflect, and feel his presence all over again."

Q: Could you briefly describe the process of having your gift matched by your employer?

"Requesting a matching gift from my employer couldn’t have been easier. With just a few minutes of checking into the program, my donation to Friends of Des Moines Parks instantly grew by 50%. I encourage every donor to see whether their employer offers a matching-gift program—many will match 100% of your contribution, or even more. It’s one of the simplest ways to increase your impact and support the incredible work being done in our parks."

Q: From your perspective as an employee, what message does your company's matching gift program send?

"Working for a company that supports what its employees care about truly means a lot. It sends a clear message that our contributions to the community matter—and that the organization is committed to standing behind us, amplifying our impact in meaningful ways both big and small."

Q: How important are parks and trails when you think about where you want to live and work?

"No matter where you live, Des Moines’ parks and trails are always close by. They give residents and visitors alike the chance to experience the city in ways that are both beautiful and uniquely ours. My dog Millie—pictured here—loves tagging along for the adventure, too!"

Tyler’s story is a powerful reminder that our parks are more than just recreational facilities; they are places of deep personal meaning, memory, and community connection.

"Everyone—please, in memory of my friend Tim, get out there and enjoy (and support) Des Moines’ parks and trails. Embrace them, explore them, and let them enrich your life. I promise, you’ll never see this city—or your own wellbeing—the same way again."

Inspired by Tyler's story?

You can honor your own memories and double your impact by checking if your employer offers a matching gift program. Support our mission today!

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