Services
Medical Equipment Loan Program
The Foundation loans out medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, and other assistive devices for short-term or long-term use. This equipment is available free of charge to people with disabilities and medical needs, including injury or surgery, who live in Des Moines County.
E.B. Gnahn Scholarship Program
Our Scholarship program was established in 1958 from Edward B. Gnahn's estate. Scholarships are available to students with a disability majoring in any field. Scholarships are also open to students majoring in a health-related field or special education. Applicants must be a graduate of a Des Moines County high school or a county resident for five years prior to applying. Scholarships are renewable.
Aquatics Program
Since 1953, the Foundation has supported a water exercise program for residents of Des Moines County with disabilities or chronic health conditions. We offer funding for persons who meet the criteria to attend aquatic classes at the Southeast Iowa Regional Center for Rehabilitation.
*Aquatics Physician Form*
This form is required as part of our aquatics program. Must be completed by your physician ONLY.
Students with Special Needs
The Foundation funds items and services for students with special needs in Des Moines County, ranging in age from pre-school to 21. The items or services that are provided help students become more independent and enhance their quality of life. Funds are made available after state and government agency funds are exhausted, and upon the recommendation of the student's teacher and support staff.
New Ideas
The Foundation is continuously exploring new ways to support children and adults with disabilities or chronic health conditions. Funding projects not currently in the foundation budget gives us the opportunity to expand in new directions and investigate new ways to benefit citizens of Des Moines County.
Programs
Special Olympics
Recreational Activities
Recreational Activities
The Foundation supports our local Special Olympians that go to the state event in Ames every spring.
Recreational Activities
Recreational Activities
Recreational Activities
The Special Needs Foundation of Des Moines County joins various organizations throughout the county to help fund recreational activities for children and adults with disabilities or chronic health conditions in safe and structured environments.
National Night Out
Recreational Activities
National Night Out
The Foundation participates in this annual event on the first Tuesday in August. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.
Camperships
Hope Haven Development Center
National Night Out
The Foundation sponsors camperships for students with disabilities or chronic health conditions to attend Camp Sunnyside in Des Moines, Iowa, and Camp Courageous in Monticello, Iowa.
Hope Haven Development Center
Hope Haven Development Center
Hope Haven Development Center
The Foundation supports the work that Hope Haven does in Des Moines County for individuals with special needs.