Since 1996, Prairie Meadows has provided more than $2.4 billion through charitable donations and taxes to improve, strengthen, and enhance our communities across Iowa. We are dedicated to advancing meaningful projects and creating lasting change to improve the lives of Iowans. In 2025, $49.2 million was provided in charitable giving to promote economic development, agriculture, jobs, and tourism across Polk County.

We partner with organizations to improve the lives of Iowans each year through our Legacy, Community Betterment, and Youth Sports and Recreational grant programs, event sponsorships, and in-kind donations. In 2025, Prairie Meadows supported Polk County with $28.9 million; the City of Des Moines with a revenue sharing donation of $5 million; and Polk County Schools with $874,363.22.

We provided $6.5 million through our Legacy Grant program, $7 million in Community Betterment Grants, and $1 million in direct support for our Youth Sports & Recreational Grants in 2025.

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Prairie Meadows has become a leading champion for conservation in Iowa. Since 2022, Prairie Meadows has awarded $900,000 to Ducks Unlimited and its partners to advance wetlands and improve water quality through the Central Iowa Clean Water Partnership.

At Prairie Meadows, we believe investing in conservation is essential to protecting Iowa’s natural resources and ensuring clean water for our communities. We are proud to support impactful efforts that enhance wetlands, strengthen wildlife habitats, and deliver lasting environmental benefits across Central Iowa. Through partnerships like the Central Iowa Clean Water Partnership, we are honored to play a role in building a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come.

Brian Ohorilko, President & CEO of Prairie Meadows, participated in an interview for a special article in Business Record. This feature offered community and business leaders the opportunity to hear directly from Brian as he shared about his background, leadership approach, and vision for Prairie Meadows. The conversation also highlighted Prairie Meadows’ role in supporting economic vitality and community impact across the Greater Des Moines region.

The American Red Cross Heroes of the Heartland event honors everyday Iowans who demonstrate courage, compassion, and selflessness, recognizing them as true champions of the Red Cross mission. It also raises critical support to help respond to home fires and local disasters, sustain lifesaving blood drives, assist military service members and their families, and provide essential safety and preparedness training throughout our communities.

Prairie Meadows was proud to support this meaningful event celebrating the very best of Iowa while helping ensure vital resources are available when our neighbors need them most. Supporting these efforts reflects our deep commitment to community, compassion, and making a lasting difference across the region. 

The 2026 Heart Ball, hosted by the American Heart Association, brought the community together for an inspiring evening dedicated to advancing heart health and celebrating progress in the fight against cardiovascular disease. The event highlighted lifesaving research, education, and advocacy efforts while raising critical funds to support prevention, treatment, and healthier lives for all.

Prairie Meadows was proud to support the Heart Ball as it aligns with our commitment to improving the well-being of our community. Investing in initiatives that promote heart health and fund lifesaving research helps create a stronger, healthier future for the people we serve.

The Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Celebration, themed “Blue Ribbon Bash – State Fair Style,” was an evening dedicated to recognizing the Chamber’s achievements and honoring this year’s award winners. The event featured a festive, fair-inspired atmosphere with opportunities for networking, celebration, and a keynote address from Jeremy Parsons, CEO/Manager of the Iowa State Fair.

As the Blue Ribbon Sponsor, Prairie Meadows was proud to support the event by helping bring the community together to celebrate local businesses, leadership, and accomplishments. This sponsorship reflected Prairie Meadows’ ongoing commitment to uplifting community organizations and supporting events that highlight the people and partnerships that contribute to a strong and vibrant Pleasant Hill community.

The Capital City Pride Gala & Awards, themed “Welcome to Wonderland,” was a 2026 celebration honoring community, authenticity, and the individuals and organizations making a meaningful impact across Iowa. Inspired by the imaginative world of Alice in Wonderland, the evening featured immersive décor, vibrant entertainment, lively bidding, and the presentation of the 2026 Pride Awards, all highlighting the creativity and contributions of the Pride community.

As a supporter of Capital City Pride, Prairie Meadows was proud to help recognize and celebrate the individuals and partners who contribute to building inclusive, connected communities throughout the region. Prairie Meadows is committed to community engagement and to celebrating events that bring people together in a spirit of inclusion, recognition, and shared achievement.

The Business Record’s 2026 Forty Under 40 recognition event honored 40 emerging local leaders under the age of 40 who were selected by past award recipients for their professional accomplishments and strong community involvement. Now in its 27th year, the program continues to highlight individuals making a meaningful impact across the region, bringing the total number of honorees to 1,080 since its inception in 2000.

As the venue sponsor, Prairie Meadows was proud to support The Business Record and the Forty Under 40 celebration by providing a space to honor and bring together these accomplished leaders. Hosting this event reflected Prairie Meadows’ commitment to supporting opportunities that celebrate professional achievement, foster community engagement, and connect individuals who are helping shape the future of central Iowa.

The Christkindlmarket Des Moines celebrated a milestone 10th year in 2025, expanding to two weekends and welcoming large crowds who gathered to enjoy the festive atmosphere, cultural traditions, and picturesque winter setting. The extended format allowed more patrons to experience the market’s holiday offerings, making the anniversary year especially memorable for both visitors and organizers.

Prairie Meadows was proud to sponsor an experience that brings the community together and highlights seasonal traditions in central Iowa. Supporting Christkindlmarket Des Moines highlights Prairie Meadows’ dedication to helping create welcoming, family-friendly events that celebrate culture, encourage community gathering, and enhance the overall quality of life in the region.

The Authors Visiting in Des Moines (AViD) 25th Anniversary Series marks a milestone celebration featuring renowned authors such as romance writer Julia Quinn and acclaimed author Tayari Jones. The series brings together literary voices and community partners including the Des Moines Arts Festival and the Des Moines Art Center to create engaging events that celebrate literature and the arts in Des Moines.

As a supporter of the series, Prairie Meadows was proud to help support an event that connects readers with influential authors and strengthens the region’s cultural landscape. Supporting the AViD series reflects Prairie Meadows’ appreciation for programs that promote education, creativity, and community engagement while bringing diverse voices and meaningful experiences to audiences across central Iowa.

Like any great company, we're always looking for new employees with fresh ideas. Find your future - apply today. 

Julie Stewart 
Chief Operating Officer
515.967.1241
Email

Call 515.967.8550 or email pmsales@prairiemeadows.com

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