Chrysalis Foundation

Chrysalis Foundation Chrysalis Foundation invests in the safety, security, education, and economic empowerment of girls

After years of encouraging Des Moines-area women to create a women's foundation, Louise Rosenfield Noun, called together her friends, Senator Elaine Szymoniak and Attorney Barbara Barrett, to establish the Chrysalis Foundation in 1989. Over the next decade, we expanded our Board, hired staff, and created our signature program, Chrysalis After-School, in addition to funding key organizations servin

g girls and women in Polk, Warren, and Dallas counties in central Iowa. In our work to engage organizations and individuals concerned for the well-being of girls and women, we created and lead the Women's Alliance, where we learn together, share resources, and provide a voice for girls and women throughout Iowa. Today, Chrysalis partners with the community to provide Iowa women and girls leadership skills, educational and economic opportunities, and a voice within their communities.

Mark your calendar for this family-friendly event!
06/07/2026

Mark your calendar for this family-friendly event!

Welcome, summer.We are looking forward to longer days, warmer weather, time with family and friends, and all the ways th...
06/06/2026

Welcome, summer.

We are looking forward to longer days, warmer weather, time with family and friends, and all the ways this season gives us a little more room to connect, recharge, and enjoy our community.

At Chrysalis, summer also reminds us that our work continues. We remain committed to showing up for the issues that matter most to girls and women, including safety, security, education, and economic empowerment.

Here’s to a season of sunshine, connection, and continued purpose.

Safety creates the foundation for everything else.This National Safety Month, Chrysalis recognizes the importance of saf...
06/05/2026

Safety creates the foundation for everything else.

This National Safety Month, Chrysalis recognizes the importance of safe homes, schools, workplaces, and communities for girls and women.

Through our partnerships across Polk, Dallas, and Warren counties, we invest in work that supports safety, security, education, and economic empowerment, helping girls and women thrive.

Join Chrysalis for our 4th Annual Summer Celebration!
06/03/2026

Join Chrysalis for our 4th Annual Summer Celebration!

Chrysalis enjoyed supporting and attending Eyes Open Iowa Linking Teens and Families event last weekend! They are hostin...
06/02/2026

Chrysalis enjoyed supporting and attending Eyes Open Iowa Linking Teens and Families event last weekend! They are hosting these events several times over the next few months, check it out!

Chrysalis Scholar Spotlight: Hayat Yimer“Being in a Chrysalis after-school program in fifth grade was a pivotal moment f...
06/01/2026

Chrysalis Scholar Spotlight: Hayat Yimer

“Being in a Chrysalis after-school program in fifth grade was a pivotal moment for my self confidence.”

Hayat shares that Chrysalis helped her better understand both the challenges women face in society and the strength, connection, and beauty found in female relationships and community.

The impact of that experience inspired her to return as a GirlPower Peer Mentor, helping create the same sense of confidence and belonging for younger girls.

Through mentorship, Hayat has continued growing as a leader while building communication skills, meaningful relationships, and confidence in her own voice.

Learn more about our Inspired Event Keynote Speaker, Lynsey Addario, and her work by visiting https://www.lynseyaddario....
05/31/2026

Learn more about our Inspired Event Keynote Speaker, Lynsey Addario, and her work by visiting https://www.lynseyaddario.com/. And mark your calendar for the Inspired Event November 2!

Lynsey Addario is an American photojournalist, who has been covering conflict and humanitarian crises around the Middle East and Africa on assignment for The New York Times, National Geographic Magazine, and Time Magazine for almost two decades.

Chrysalis Scholar Spotlight: Hannah Wilwerding“Without Chrysalis, I wouldn't be as knowledgeable about the valuable skil...
05/30/2026

Chrysalis Scholar Spotlight: Hannah Wilwerding

“Without Chrysalis, I wouldn't be as knowledgeable about the valuable skills of leadership, cooperation, and communication.”

Through the Chrysalis After-School program and later serving as a GirlPower mentor, Hannah gained not only leadership experience, but a deeper understanding of relationships, communication, emotional wellbeing, and the importance of continued learning and growth.

Programs like Chrysalis create opportunities for girls and young women to build confidence, strengthen their voices, and develop skills they carry into every part of their lives and future leadership.

As another school year comes to a close, we want to give a HUGE thank you to our Chrysalis After-School facilitators.Tha...
05/29/2026

As another school year comes to a close, we want to give a HUGE thank you to our Chrysalis After-School facilitators.

Thank you for the time, energy, encouragement, patience, laughter, and leadership you brought to students all year long. You helped create spaces where girls could grow in confidence, build friendships, develop leadership skills, and feel supported exactly as they are.

We are so grateful for everything you poured into this year. Have an amazing summer, you earned it!

Address

1248 8th Street, Suite 101
West Des Moines, IA
50265

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+15152551853

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