Views Forward Project

Grand View University has been a proud and committed resident of the east side of Des Moines since its founding in 1896. Campus improvements in the last decade have enhanced the University’s footprint along East 14^th Street and surrounding streets.

The Views Forward Project recognizes the impact the University has had on the neighborhood and aims to bring continued positive change through genuine and sustainable projects, programs and events that involve residents and businesses. The Project will work with neighborhood leaders representing Highland Park, Union Park, Capitol Park, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Park to identify and develop initiatives that meet community needs and expand opportunities for Grand View students to serve, learn and build ties to the east side of Des Moines.

Ticket Program

Grand View boasts championship-caliber athletics and entertaining cultural offerings. Through the Views Forward Project Ticket Program, anyone living in the Highland Park, Union Park, Capitol Park, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Park neighborhood associations is invited to attend Grand View athletic, theater, music or cultural performances for free. Tickets must be reserved to avoid paying admission.

Reserve My Tickets

Habitat for Humanity

In the fall of 2017, Grand View's United Way campaign supported Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity. The campaign raised $13,000, more than any previous Grand View United Way campaign and the funds were enough to support the construction of a new home in the neighborhood. In 2018, staff and faculty took two days from work to build the walls and help construct the house.

Community Garden

Grand View used University property to develop a community garden that neighbors campus. With the support of United Way, Eat Greater Des Moines, and the Polk County Board of Supervisors, 15 community members were able to grow fresh food for their families.

DMARC Mobile Food Pantry

Grand View partnered with the Des Moines Area Religious Council to become a mobile food pantry site. Starting in March 2019, the pantry is parked on campus twice a month, making food available to students and the neighboring community. The pantry is staffed by Grand View students, staff and faculty volunteers.

Food Rescue

Grand View staff studied the amount of leftover food from our dining and catering operations and began a partnership with local churches. Volunteers from the churches pick up the unused food from campus twice weekly to feed local children at after school programs.

Neighborhood Advisory Committee

The Views Forward Project has brought neighborhood leaders together for planning sessions to gather input and provide feedback on Views Forward project planning. The 25 members of the Neighborhood Advisory Committee meet four times a year to share news and discuss common concerns.