Community Service

We often talk about how thoughts and prayers aren’t enough, so it is important for us to show what actually makes a difference in the lives of people who need help.

This committee serves to normalize atheism in the minds of the people in our community. By demonstrating that we are invested in improving the world around us, we are able to break down stigma and negative preconceptions about atheists.

IAF adopted the Trestle to Trestle portion of the bike trail in north Des Moines, and schedules regular clean up days to help keep our community safe and clean.

Adopt-a-Trail Program

Four people wearing yellow safety vests standing outside near trail information signs, with bags of trash on the ground, participating in a community cleanup event.

Two women wearing neon yellow safety vests standing on a grassy field, holding tools for surveying or gardening, with trees and a park in the background.

Group of people, including children and adults, standing outdoors in front of a trail map and informational sign, wearing safety vests for a community event or outdoor activity.

Blue sign for Adopt-A-Trail program by the City of Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department, indicating it was adopted by Iowa Atheists & Freethinkers, surrounded by green bushes and leaves.

A man wearing sunglasses, a knit hat, a black jacket, and a yellow safety vest taking a selfie outdoors. There is a sign behind him that says 'Adopt-A-Trail Program' by the City of Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department, and it also states the trail is adopted by Iowa Atheists & Freethinkers.

Group of people wearing yellow safety vests standing outdoors near a sign that reads 'Tom and Sophie Vlassis Greenway, in the lower Beaver neighborhood' on a sunny day with trees and grass in the background.

Helping Iowa Organizations Thrive

Two women standing outdoors in winter, holding a check and smiling. Behind them is a brick wall with a sign that says 'families forward SERVICES + SHELTER', along with other text about shelter and donations. There is snow on the ground.

In 2025, we raised $2,000 in donations for Families Forward’s New Directions Shelter

Two men are working at a table with various supplies in an indoor setting, surrounded by people. One man is wearing a yellow t-shirt and glasses, and the other is wearing a patterned shirt and a cap. There are large blue and clear containers on the table, with a background of boxes, a globe, and a painting on the wall.

Packaging meals during an event at the World Food Prize Building

In 2019, we were able to provide nearly $3,000 worth of science equipment to Lamoni schools.

For several years we have participated in the Blank Children’s Festival of Trees & Lights by decorating a tree to be donated for upwards of $10,000!

A school supply drive where we would raise money and then have a big shopping day to spend all the money on supplies for low-income schools.

A school supply drive where we raised money and then had a big shopping day to purchase supplies for low-income schools.

Current Volunteer Opportunities

Have an idea for a project?

Use the link below to connect with us.

GET IN TOUCH

Interested in joining us?

Look at our calendar for upcoming events.

EVENTS CALENDAR