The 2025 Coats for Kids drive was a huge success. Along with the Highline Schools Foundation, we collected over 800 coats for students in Highline Public Schools. We were able to further support the community by donating coats to the Des Moines Food Bank, Pregnancy Aid, and the Des Moines Police Foundation, as well as assisting with coat drives for a couple of other organizations.
Catherine Carbone
Burning Boat Festival is On for NYE
The Des Moines Burning Boat Festival is back on Dec. 31, from 6 to 9 p.m., and it’s going to be HOT!
Lighting the Way for Local Youth: Rotary and the City Team Up on the 2025 Burning Boat Festival
The 2025 Burning Boat Festival will light up the Des Moines Beach Park with a community bonfire on New Year’s Eve. Join us as we All are invited.
Dec. 31, 6-9 p.m.
Des Moines Marina
This year, the Rotary Club of Des Moines & Normandy Park is partnering with the City of Des Moines to raise $20,000 for youth scholarships to City Parks & Recreation programs.The funds will ensure that every child—regardless of financial circumstances—can participate in sports, camps, classes, and recreational activities that help them grow, learn, and thrive.
Why This Matters
Not every family can afford the full cost of Parks & Rec programs. Yet we know that when kids have access to safe, creative, and supportive spaces, they flourish. They build confidence. They discover passions. They form friendships. And they stay active and engaged in our community.
Your support helps make that possible.
Sponsorship: A Chance to Make a Real Impact
This year’s Burning Boat Festival offers a range of sponsorship opportunities. Every sponsorship comes with a set of benefits, from fire pit reservations to marketing features. No matter the level, your contribution helps us reach our $20,000 goal and ensures we can continue expanding access to youth programs.



