Connection. Education. Compassion.
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
Beit Sefer Shalom offers high-quality Jewish education for Pre-K through high school. Explore our curriculum, schedule and teen programs.
Iowa Jewish Historical Society
The IJHS is an award-winning institution that celebrates Iowa's Jewish heritage through education and preservation.
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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New on the Blog
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...
Benjamin Brodkey
February 3, 2023
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...
Giovanna Zavell
December 17, 2021
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...
Giovanna Zavell
October 18, 2021