Chrysalis Foundation Information

Chrysalis is a public foundation established to address the needs of girls and women in the Greater Des Moines area. We are a leader in improving our community by assuring the well-being of girls and women through education, grant making, and philanthropy. Chrysalis promotes increased investment in girls and women, raises awareness about their issues and potential, and develops them as leaders and philanthropists. We inspire girls and women to aspire to economic security, personal leadership, and equality every day of their lives. Mission: Chrysalis is dedicated to increasing resources and opportunities for girls and women in Des Moines. Vision: Chrysalis envisions a world of independent, influential, confident, and contributing girls and women who are fully involved in civic, cultural, and economic life in their communities. History: Chrysalis was founded in 1989 by Louise Rosenfield Noun, along with her friends Senator Elaine Szymoniak and Attorney Barbara Barrett. Over the next decade, we expanded our board, hired staff, and created its signature program, Chrysalis After-School, in addition to funding key programs serving girls and women in Polk, Warren, and Dallas Counties in central Iowa. In work to engage organizations and stakeholders concerned for the well-being of girls and women, we created and lead the Women's Alliance as a partnership to learn together, share resources, and bring a collective voice for girls and women throughout Greater Des Moines and Iowa.