About Us
Who We Are
The main purposes of the Community Foundation of Des Moines County are to build community endowments, be a resource for a broad range of community needs (arts and culture, education, health and human services, historic preservation, etc.) and to assist donors by offering a variety of giving options.
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The Community Foundation of Des Moines County was formed in 2006 as an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Great River Bend. The founding members of the organization had a vision to ensure that our communities' charitable programs were supported now and in the future. We work together with many individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to establish endowment funds that will provide grant awards for years to come. Today, the Foundation is an affiliate of the Keokuk Area Community Foundation.
Meet The People Behind The Work
Michelle Abouassaly
Executive Director
Michelle AbouAssaly has served as the Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Des Moines County since October 2021. A dedicated advocate for local philanthropy, Michelle plays a key role in guiding donors, supporting nonprofit partners, and expanding the foundation’s community impact. Under her leadership, the number of funds managed by the foundation has grown by 33% and total assets have increased by over 66%. In 2024 alone, Michelle helped spearhead a 50% growth in assets—an achievement made even more meaningful by her decision to donate her own earnings back into the Margaret Hanson Community Impact Fund. Thanks in large part to her efforts, that fund awarded more than $100,000 in grants to 35 local nonprofits last year. Tireless, generous, and deeply committed, Michelle continues to shape a more connected and compassionate future for Des Moines County.
The Community Foundation of Des Moines County is governed by a local Board of Directors active in our local communities. Our board sets policy and makes final grant decisions. All members are volunteers serving a maximum of 6 years. Our staff can help assist you in building and preserving enduring assets for charitable purposes in our community.
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Take a minute to read more about these powerful leaders below, and meet our Board of Directors.
Chad Palmer
Energyficient Systems Inc.
Board Chair
Coming Soon!