Polk County Community Betterment Grants Support Grand View Students

September 18, 2026

Grand View University has received two 2026 Community Betterment Grants from Polk County.

The first grant was awarded to the Theatre Arts Department to support its touring children’s play in October 2026. The tour provides a live theatre experience to students in Des Moines elementary schools, many of whom do not otherwise have access to live theatre due to financial, transportation and other barriers. The grant will be used to purchase microphones, which will improve the production’s sound quality in the elementary gymnasiums and cafeterias that host the tour.

Kristin Larson, Theatre Department Chair, highlighted the importance of the grant: “GV Theatre Arts is so grateful to the Polk County Community Betterment Grant Program for this vital assistance so that we can share the joy of live theatre with elementary school students in Des Moines!”

A second grant, awarded to the Grand View Counseling Department, will support the installation of privacy pods on campus. These pods will provide a quiet spot for students who have sensory sensitivities, need a place to decompress away from peers, need a private spot for calls or virtual meetings, or prefer a very quiet study environment.

Heather Thomas, Director of Counseling Services, noted, “Grand View has seen an increase in the number of students requesting accommodations for neurodiversity, and these pods are a much-needed support.”

The Theatre Arts and Counseling Department projects funded in 2026 exemplify the difference external partners can make for Grand View students and the community. The university is grateful for the contributions Polk County has made through its grant programs.