West Polk County Rotarians Tour New YESS Facility in Downtown Des Moines

Members of the West Polk County Rotary Club had a unique opportunity this week; a field trip of sorts.  The organization has been aware and engaged with the Youth Emergency Services Shelter (YESS) for some time.  Some members continue to actively volunteer with the organization from time to time.  That it why members were excited at the opportunity to host their meeting at the recently expanded YESS facility.

 

YESS is a private nonprofit organization serving children and their families in Central Iowa. The agency opened in 1973 as a drop-in center for runaway teens and has grown into a well-established, highly-regarded, accredited agency designed to keep children safe. YESS is a safety net of services, providing healing and hope in times of crisis. 

 

The YESS facility just completed a 19,000 square foot, $4.2 million facility expansion.  YESS Chief Executive Officer Brian Quirk greeted Rotarians at the event and then described how the new facilities will positively impact their ability to provide service to the community.  The expansion, which includes additional housing, an art studio, a music studio, a training room and a library, will allow YESS to serve approximately 100 more children.

 

To learn more about YESS, their mission, what they do, and how they do it, visit their website at www.yessiowa.org.  The West Polk County Rotary Club members are grateful to Steven Quirk, for the tour, and all those who support this organization for their time, effort, donations, etc.  It is a phenomenal organization that needs our continued support in order to continue their good work.