Altoona, Iowa — Caring Hands Outreach Center is proud to announce the award of a $240,000 grant from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) in support of the organization’s innovative ADA Garden and Water Catchment Project. This significant investment builds upon the previously awarded grant from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), creating a powerful partnership focused on sustainability, accessibility, education, and community wellness.
The combined funding will support the installation of a roof rainwater collection system designed to capture, store, and distribute rainwater directly to the organization’s ADA-accessible community garden. The project represents a major step forward in environmental stewardship while creating inclusive green space opportunities for residents of all abilities.
“This project reflects the future of community collaboration and sustainability,” said Jodi Urich of Caring Hands Outreach Center. “We are incredibly grateful to IDALS and the Iowa DNR for believing in a vision that not only conserves natural resources but also creates educational opportunities and accessible spaces for our neighbors.”
The ADA Garden and Water Catchment Project will serve multiple purposes throughout the community. In addition to supplying sustainable irrigation to the garden, the site will become an educational demonstration area for the public, schools, volunteers, and participants involved in Caring Hands’ HERD Program (Human Empowerment & Restorative Diversion). The project will provide hands-on learning opportunities focused on conservation, environmental responsibility, urban agriculture, and workforce development.
Participants in the HERD Program will gain practical experience in landscaping, gardening, water conservation systems, and environmental maintenance while contributing to a meaningful community initiative. The project aligns with Caring Hands’ ongoing mission to restore dignity, empower individuals, and create pathways toward long-term self-sufficiency.
Caring Hands will also work closely with the City of Altoona and Polk County Board of Supervisors to support the expansion of community green space and park systems. The collaboration is expected to enhance the area surrounding the Outreach Center, creating a welcoming and accessible environment for residents, families, and visitors.
The ADA Garden will feature accessible pathways, educational signage, community gathering areas, and sustainable landscaping elements designed to serve individuals of all mobility levels. The water catchment infrastructure will demonstrate practical conservation methods while reducing environmental impact and supporting long-term operational sustainability.
“This is more than a garden,” Urich added. “It is a place for healing, education, restoration, and community connection. We believe this project will become a model for how nonprofits, government agencies, and local communities can work together to build healthier and more sustainable neighborhoods.”
Construction and development efforts are expected to continue in phases, with opportunities for community volunteers, donors, and local partners to participate throughout the process.
For more information about Caring Hands Outreach Center, the ADA Garden and Water Catchment Project, or partnership opportunities, please contact Caring Hands Outreach Center directly.
About Caring Hands Outreach Center
Caring Hands Outreach Center serves Eastern Polk County through food assistance, social services, volunteer engagement, and community outreach initiatives designed to strengthen and empower neighbors in need.
Contact Information:
Jodi Urich – CEO
Caring Hands Outreach Center
jurich@caringhandsiowa.org
515.967.4533