Caspe Terrace Event

Connection. Education. Compassion.

Gan Shalom Preschool Student

Gan Shalom Preschool

Build your child's foundation for learning—academically and spiritually. Families of all faiths are welcome at Gan Shalom.

Beit Sefer Shalom Students

Beit Sefer Shalom

Beit Sefer Shalom offers high-quality Jewish education for Pre-K through high school. Explore our curriculum, schedule and teen programs.

Jewish Historical Society Members

Iowa Jewish Historical Society

The IJHS is an award-winning institution that celebrates Iowa's Jewish heritage through education and preservation.

Woman Talking to kids

Jewish Family Services

We help our neighbors through outreach, family programs, senior adult services and financial assistance.

Our Mission

At the Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines, our mission is to enrich Jewish living through connection, education, and compassion. Get to know us and the programs we offer in Central Iowa.

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We welcome you to join us for a wide range of local events! Use our calendar to find social, spiritual and educational gatherings.

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New on the Blog

  • Celebrate Tu BiShevat!

This Sunday evening and Monday (February 5-6, 2023) is the festival of Tu BiShevat. Named after its Hebrew date (the 15th of Shevat), the day served as way to help farmers count time regarding certain agricultural laws. It is one of the four “New Years Days” on the Hebrew calendar. In medieval times, it was...

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  • Finding My Des Moines Jewish Community

When I think back to my early days at the Federation, I would have never imagined my role would go beyond a college student Hebrew school teacher. Boy was I wrong.  Now, I leave a legacy as the editor of The Jewish Press, Judaic specialist for Gan Shalom Preschool and Beit Sefer Shalom, Engman Camp...

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  • Des Moines Community Visits Auschwitz Exhibit in Kansas City

On Monday, October 4, 2021, The Iowa Jewish Historical Society sponsored and organized a trip for 35 community members, including two high school students, to attend “Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away.” This traveling exhibit displayed more than 700 original objects for the first time in history. Below are thoughts, reactions and photos from...

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