addam c. medina foundation
Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs
The Body Shop
Kenmin Industries
Mr. & Mrs. Carl Tipton
Veridian Bank, Des Moines, IA
Larry Marshall Farm Bureau, Dexter NM
Christ Episcopal Church, Cedar Rapids, IA
Dan and Melody Rockwell
Winston and Carole Bumpus
Chris and Jo Johannson
Megan Orine Campbell
MetaBank
Plymouth Congregational Church
United Church of Christ-Justice and Witness Ministries
Barnes & Noble
Bella Soul
Lynn Miller
Leisha Barcus
Jennifer Hahn
Nationwide Information Technology Service Desk
Culture Inc.
Culture Incorporated was born on August 1st, 2008 when a lease was signed at 3619 6th Ave in Des Moines. The business was state licensed and incorporated on August 8th and its director, board members, and volunteers went to work preparing for the start of school on August 21st.
Some walls were painted, others taken out completely; carpeting and the underlying tiles were pulled and scraped up. New hardwood laminate flooring was laid in the dance studio area. A huge mirror was installed for dancers to practice in front of. Lockers and a commercial sink and art supplies were purchased. It has been months since the fire and Culture Inc. has moved into its same location fully restored after the fire. We resumed programming on December 20th and so far have served over 100 young people here in Des Moines. The children have enjoyed meeting local artists, listened to guest speakers on mental health, name calling, violence, and bullying. Programming has included tutoring, yoga classes, recording studio training, dance, jewelry making, painting, paper mache, Ukrainian Easter eggs, vocal workshops, attending the Broadway performance of The Color Purple, and more.
By August 16th things were pretty much ready to go. Culture Inc. hosted a back to school party that was well attended. There were cake-walks, jewelry-making, painting, henna tattoos, collage, pizza, cake and ice cream all to celebrate. With the start of school on August 21st, Culture Incorporated's number of participants seemed to double every day. The staff and volunteers enjoyed learning the names, personalities, and artistic interests of the participants. Sadly on August 31st, the director of Culture Inc. received a phone call alerting her that there had been a fire at the center. Everything was destroyed.
Since the fire Culture Inc. has been busy preparing the community for the wonderful things we know are going to come from our youth. Just like the Phoenix rising from the ashes so will the vision and mission of Culture Inc. Our precious future, our youth are counting on it.
8.10.09
Culture Inc. Creative Kids Summer Camps have come to an end. Thank you to all the parents who allowed us to share in the joy of your children. They enjoyed going to the movies, visiting different swimming pools, The Ankeny Art Center and the Des Moines Art Museum along with many creative activities at the center.
12.7.09
Culture Inc. with depleted funds and little support during tough economic times considers closing its doors when Polk County DCAT announces they will support Culture Inc. with a substantial grant. Thank you Polk County DCAT for believing in our program and allowing this program to continue!
Culture Inc.
3619 6th Ave
Des Moines Iowa
50313
515-244-1200
email us at cultureincorporated@gmail.com
