Just $300,000 stands between students and a space built for hope.

What began in 2003 as a small outreach to homeless teens has grown into Freedom for Youth Ministries—offering after-school and summer programs grounded in faith, education, employment, and leadership for K–12 students, plus personal and professional development for young adults.

Today, nearly 150 students attend each week—but many more are still on a waiting list.

To meet this need, we launched a bold expansion: the Freedom Children’s Center—a project to more than double our capacity. Land was secured in 2016, and after years of prayer and generous giving, construction began in July 2023. Phase 1 was fully funded by early 2024, but inflation has pushed total costs for Phase 2 to nearly $2.5 million.

In 2025, God moved again. New donors and partner companies stepped up—covering electrical, fire suppression, the front entrance, doors, and stone façade. Donated siding and drywall are ready to go, but we still need installers. Interior doors, painting, flooring, cabinetry, and kitchen appliances are next—with your help.

This project is powered by partnerships—churches, contractors, and donors who’ve already raised nearly $3 million. Now, we’re just $300,000 away from finishing Phase 2 and opening the doors to more children. *

That’s just 300 people giving $1,000. Will you be one of them?

Give online today or mail a check to: Freedom for Youth, 2301 Hickman Road, Des Moines, IA 50310. Add “Children’s Cente” in the comments section online or in the memo line on your check so we can direct your gift to the Chldren’s Center fund.  

Every gift brings us one step closer to welcoming more kids into a place of learning, safety, and hope.

*Phase 3 will include a playground, multipurpose room divider, and final touches.