Service Above Self – rotary vision
Rotary International was founded in 1905 and is in more than 200 countries. Together, we see a world where people unity and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.
What is CIVITAS?
Since 2015, an initiative of the Greater Des Moines Rotary Multi-Club Committee, made up of representatives from 12 metro Des Moines Rotary Clubs. Annually, we work to bring metro area Clubs together as one for education, service, and networking. Over the years, topics have included: water quality, mental health, hunger, substance abuse, and human trafficking.
Why a focus on human trafficking prevention?
In 2022, CIVITAS decided to focus on the topic of human trafficking to make a long-term impact.
Des Moines sits at the crossroads of I-80 and I-35 – major interstate corridors that traffickers exploit. Human trafficking is happening right here, in our neighborhoods, in our communities, and we all have a duty to be aware and informed.
Laser focus on impact – law enforcement training.
We collaborate with Iowa Law Enforcement Academy Director Brady Carney. While our focus is on the metro Des Moines area, the invitation goes out to statewide law enforcement. We bring in nationally recognized trainer Dan Nash, founder of the Human Trafficking Training Center, for training with law enforcement and their partners.
Who attends training:
City and county law enforcement, victim services/nonprofits, victim advocates, prosecutors, city/county attorneys, corrections, probation/parole, healthcare providers.
A Critical Gap in Training
The Iowa Law Enforcement Academy can dedicate only about two hours of human trafficking training to new recruits. Conversations with speakers and the ILEA confirmed that while the need is great, existing solutions remain minimal.
Evolving Threats
The tactics of human traffickers continue to evolve with digital tools and expanded access. Education and training must evolve at the same pace for first responders to get out ahead of these threats.
Community Responsiblity
Law enforcement alone cannot solve this crisis. It requires a coordinated effort with educators, healthcare, nonprofits and civic organizations like Rotary to raise awareness and drive meaningful action.
Impact to Date
Attendees in 2 years
Dollars raised for training & HT nonprofits
5 year goal
Greater Des Moines Rotary Multi-Club Committee – CIVITAS
Ankeny Noon
Ankeny Evening
Des Moines
Des Moines AM
East Polk County
Indianola
Johnston
NW Des Moines
Waukee
West Des Moines
West Polk County
Winterset & MICREC
Contact: Tamara Kenworthy, CIVITAS Co-Chair 515-314-6568 | [email protected]