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Driving Progress Together: The Impact of Civility in Our Region

Impact of Civility

September 13, 2024

Civility is a cornerstone of progress. We’ve long recognized the power of working together to solve challenges and seize opportunities. Our region’s strength is built largely on working together with respect and constructive dialogue, enabling us to bring people from diverse backgrounds together to find common ground. When we approach our conversations with civility, we create an environment where collaboration thrives, and that helps set Greater Des Moines (DSM) apart.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership remains committed to fostering this spirit of cooperation and civility. We believe that meaningful change happens when we listen to one another, engage in respectful conversations and focus on shared goals. By doing so, our region has grown stronger, more connected and more resilient.

The Candidate Forum Series Returns

This fall with the upcoming 2024 General Election, we’ll continue this commitment. One thing The Partnership will do to accomplish this is by bringing back one of our signature policy events, The Candidate Forum series. This series provides Republican and Democratic candidates running for federal office the opportunity to provide remarks with Partnership Investors, Members and credentialed media in a town hall-style format.

This series offers the opportunity for voters to hear directly from candidates on issues important to our communities. The forums emphasize thoughtful dialogue, offering a space where ideas can be shared and discussed in a respectful and open manner. See the full schedule at DSMpartnership.com/events.

Shaping Public Policy Agendas for 2025

Additionally, the Partnership’s Government Policy Council (GPC) is doing important work shaping the public policy agendas for 2025 at both the state and federal levels. This process involves collaboration between Partnership Investors and Members to identify the legislative priorities that will drive economic growth, workforce and strengthen our communities for future success. By working together, we ensure that the policies we advocate for are consensus-based and presented with one regional voice. To learn more about the GPC, reach out to Ryan Moon at rmoon@DSMpartnership.com.

As Election Day approaches, our community, state and country are faced with strong opinions and differing perspectives on who the best candidates are to lead us forward. How will we respond?

As we continue to navigate political polarization, economic change and social issues, we must stay committed to our legacy of working together. Civility is not just a positive trait, it’s an essential part of the DSM fabric, a key to ensuring our region remains a best-in-class leader for years to come.

Let's make DSM a model of unity. Our region is healthier when we prioritize working together across jurisdictional and political boundaries.

Together, let's lead with respect, collaboration and a shared commitment to making DSM strong.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership Board is made up of Greater Des Moines (DSM) leaders and industry experts. The Board is united in driving economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region.

David Stark

David Stark is Chief of Government Affairs & Philanthropy at UnityPoint Health and 2024 Greater Des Moines Partnership Board Chair.