Chrysalis is celebrating 35 years! Throughout 2024, we will celebrate the girls, women, and men who are part of our work. Several special events will emphasize the foundation’s gratitude to the community that has supported it since 1989, and we hope you will join us!

Launching as a private foundation in 1989, founders Louise Noun, Elaine Szymoniak, and Barbara Barrett met twice a year to commit funding from Louise to women-serving nonprofits. 

Louise named the foundation, “Chrysalis Foundation,” as a symbol of the emerging butterfly. She wanted it to become more than just her private foundation, and the community responded positively by recognizing the considerable needs of girls and women. Chrysalis became a public charity supported by generous contributions from people throughout Greater Des Moines. 

Since then, Chrysalis has been committed to raising funds, awarding grants, leading programs, and educating the community with the support and energy of local nonprofit partners, schools, colleges, donors, and volunteers.

March 7, 2024: The threads that connect us: A conversation with coauthors of The Thread Collectors.  

April 16, 2024: Being Your Best During the Worst: How to Handle the Curveballs of Life. Tickets available here   

July 25, 2024: Chrysalis Board Reunion. Save the date now! More details coming soon. 

Fall 2024: A special INSPIRED Event that's too hot to announce yet!