The Gumbiner Foundation for Growth Non-Profit Organization
The Gumbiner Foundation for Growth stands with the people of Des Moines providing crisis support, mentorship, and resources while advocating for real solutions to homelessness, food insecurity, and systemic issues. Through direct aid and policy change, we fight for a stronger, more just community.
Our Story
The Gumbiner Foundation for Growth was founded on the belief that no one should have to face hardship alone. As crisis in Des Moines have grown (rising homelessness, lack of resources, and struggling communities) we have stepped in to advocate for change and provide direct support to those in need.
Our work is twofold:
1. Providing urgent assistance to individuals & families struggling with poverty, homelessness, and crisis.
2. Holding city officials accountable and pushing for real, long-term solutions to Des Moines' biggest challenges.
Crisis Response & Direct Support
If you or someone you know is in immediate need, we are here to help. Our team provides direct assistance to people experiencing crises, whether due to homelessness, eviction, food insecurity, job loss, or mental health struggles.
- Emergency shelter referrals & housing assistance
- Hot meals, groceries & food resources
- Transportation aid for medical or housing needs
- Mental health support & crisis intervention referrals
Education & Employment Assistance
A stable future starts with education and job opportunities.
we provide:
- Scholarship opportunities for at-risk youth and struggling adults.
- Job training and resume building workshops.
- Interview coaching and career mentorship.
- Employment connections and networking support.
Homelessness Outreach & Prevention
Homelessness is one of the most urgent crises in Des Moines, Our foundation works to:
- Provide direct aid to individuals and families without housing.
- Advocate for better city policies to prevent evictions and increase housing resources.
- Offer transitional support to help people regain stability.
- Host community resource drives to collect and distribute essential items.
Advocacy & City Engagement
We work directly with city officials. business leaders, and policymakers to push for systemic solutions instead of temporary fixes.
Our advocacy includes:
- Speaking at city council meetings to demand action on homelessness, housing, and social injustice issues.
- Fighting for increased funding for mental health, housing programs, and community services.
- Organizing community meetings to ensure local voices are heard.
- Challenging harmful policies that criminalize poverty and homelessness.
Mentorship & Leadership Programs
We believe in empowering individuals and youth by providing strong mentorship, leadership training, and career development opportunities.
Our mentorship programs help:
- At-risk youth find guidance and stability.
- Individuals break cycles of poverty and homelessness.
- People develop leadership and advocacy skills to fight for change in their own communities.
Community Outreach & Engagement
We are on the ground in Des Moines creating safe spaces, resource hubs, and emergency aid programs.
- Pop-up events providing food, clothing, and essentials.
- Mobile response teams offering assistance where it's needed most.
- Collaboration with local organizations to strengthen available support networks.
Donation & Support
Your donation directly helps Des Moines' homeless community, struggling families, & at-risk youth. We use every dollar to provide shelter, food, employment resources, & advocacy efforts to create lasting change.
- One-Time Donations
- Recurring Giving Options
- Corporate Sponsorships & Partnerships
Meet Our Founders
Joshua J. Gumbiner is the lead founder of The Gumbiner Foundation for Growth. He founded the organization with a deep passion for helping others reach their full potential. Inspired by his own journey of personal growth and success, Joshua created the non-profit to empower individuals and communities through education, opportunity, and meaningful support.
Founder of The Gumbiner Group, a strategic
Tana Goertz is a world-renowned inspirational speaker, business & life coach, and high level advisor who has impacted thousands of lives worldwide.
Tana has worked at the highest levels and now works collaboratively to create a supportive network, raise awareness and build a brighter future for Des Moines & it's at-risk residents.
Katie V. Bunn is the Co-Founder of The Gumbiner Foundation for Growth & its brand & marketing manager. She specializes in social media strategy, advertising & brand development, helping nonprofits & businesses elevate their presence & engagement.
Katie creates impactful content, manages marketing campaigns, & develops strategic growth plans. Passionate about community impact, she leads the foundati