A Carnival Cookout: Local Volunteers Support Broadlawns FOCUS Program with Kurtz Center

On May 24, 2024, the Rapid Relief Team (RRT), the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church (PBCC), joined the Broadlawns FOCUS Program and Kurtz Opportunity Center in Des Moines to support their summer Sports Carnival. Held at the Des Moines Public Schools' Kurtz Opportunity Center, the Carnival event brought together local healthcare professionals, patients and their families for a day of nourishment and connection.

RRT Volunteers in Greater Des Moines

Nineteen RRT volunteers hailing from across Des Moines served 109 signature BBQ burger meals to attendees of all ages. The event highlighted the vital role of the Broadlawns Focus Program and Kurtz Opportunity Center, which provide essential services and support to the Greater Des Moines (DSM) community.

 

Travis Waterman, RRT Team Leader for the event, said it was in line with RRT’s mission to support and uplift the community by celebrating contributions of staff and families by offering a fresh meal on a beautiful day. Mel McRoy, a member of the Broadlawns Focus Program, expressed his thanks in RRT being there put a smile on the teachers’ and children’s faces.

 

The opportunity to support the Broadlawns Focus Program arose when a teacher witnessed RRT’s work at a previous event. This partnership exemplifies RRT’s dedication to making a meaningful difference in local communities by supporting events and initiatives that bring people together. The day was marked by heartfelt interactions, laughter and a collective sense of purpose. As the BBQ wrapped up, it was clear that the event had not only filled stomachs but also warmed hearts.

As the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, RRT’s mission of spreading care and compassion arises from the Church’s charitable philosophy. PBCC members actively contribute to the local communities where they live, work and serve, and RRT’s 14,500 members give back both to their own localities and to those in need around the world. In 2023, RRT served 374,990 meals at 1,387 events in 14 countries.

For more information on the Rapid Relief Team and their initiatives, visit rapidreliefteam.org.

Improving the Greater Des Moines (DSM) community through volunteering and community service is a priority for many. Thanks to community engagement opportunities and leadership connecting local businesses to causes that provide services to improve the region, DSM continues to be a place that provides support for those who live, work and play here.