Des Moines Opens Applications for EngageDSM: Resident Academy Cohort #3

DES MOINES, IOWA - Friday, November 14, 2025 - How much do you really know about the City of Des Moines? EngageDSM invites residents to step into the shoes of city staff and leaders, discover ways to get involved, and learn how the City of Des Moines serves YOU!

Applications are open for EngageDSM Cohort #3, where residents are invited to explore the 17 departments that support the City of Des Moines!

"This unique public engagement program invites residents to explore the city they live in and gain valuable insights into the 'how's and 'why's of city government," Des Moines Community Impact & Relations Director Manisha Paudel said.

"Local governments can be complex, given the myriad of crucial programs and services we offer. This program is designed to not only give residents a glimpse of that but also offer multiple ways for them to continue to be connected and meaningfully engaged."

Through this interactive and inquisitive program, residents will meet City leaders, learn how each department operates, discover how to access City services, explore opportunities to join committees, boards and commissions, tour City facilities, and get a first-hand look at how the City of Des Moines serves its residents.

The six-week program consists of one session per week on Thursdays from 5:30 to 8:30P.M. The program begins April 9 and runs through May 14, with a graduation ceremony to follow the completion of the program at City Hall on May 21, 2026.

All Des Moines Residents ages 18 or older are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit DSM.city/EngageDSM. Spots are limited and applications will close once the 25 spots are filled.

CONTACT
Zoe Sadauskis
Communications Specialist, City Manager's Office
(515) 283-4795
[email protected]

About the City of Des Moines
The City of Des Moines is Iowa's capital city and our 17 departments serve more than 214,000 residents and 46 neighborhood associations. Des Moines is a leader in sustainability and provides its residents with vibrant neighborhoods, an alive and active downtown, and abundant leisure opportunities.

Des Moines continuously improves neighborhoods, public safety and quality of life by offering exceptional city services and reliable infrastructure while fostering an involved and compassionate community for all who visit and live in Des Moines.