Just Released
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Receives $20,000 Donation from Sammons Financial Group
10/6/2026DES MOINES, Iowa (October 6, 2026) – The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden has received a $20,000 donation from Sammons Financial Group to support its Pineapple Program, an access initiative designed to reduce financial barriers to experiencing the Garden.
Named after the pineapple, a universal symbol of welcome and hospitality, the Pineapple Program provides free and reduced-cost admission, memberships, and educational experiences for low-income individuals and families throughout Central Iowa.
“At the Botanical Garden, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to connect with plants, participate in educational experiences, and find a welcoming place to learn, grow, and belong,” said Kim Perez, President and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. “Sammons Financial Group’s generous support will help remove barriers and welcome more individuals and families to experience the Garden. We are grateful for their investment in this important work and the community we serve.”
Marcy Baker, Chair of Sammons Financial Group’s Community Involvement Committee added, “Sammons Financial Group is pleased to support the Pineapple Program and its work to make the Botanical Garden more accessible to our community. As an employee-owned company, we are proud to support programs that reflect what matters to our employees and that expand access to meaningful community resources.”
The Pineapple Program provides access through several coordinated initiatives:
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Museums for All provides free general admission for up to four visitors presenting a WIC or SNAP benefits card and photo ID.
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Pineapple Memberships build on Museums for All by providing Iowa WIC and SNAP benefits cardholders with a free, one-year household membership, encouraging repeat visits and deeper engagement with the Garden.
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Iowa Adventure Pass provides free admission for two adults and two through metro and regional libraries.
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Community Days offer free admission on Earth Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and Veterans Day, welcoming thousands of visitors.
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Community Memberships allow registered nonprofits serving clients to bring groups of up to 12 people to the Garden during general admission hours or for planned group experiences.
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Free Pass Distribution through outreach initiatives and community partnerships, including Des Moines Public Schools, extends opportunities to experience the Garden to more families.
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Community Partner Education provides Community Membership holders and other client-serving nonprofits with discounted educational programs at the Garden or in community settings.
In fiscal year 2026, these initiatives provided Garden access to more than 12,000 individuals. Learn more about the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s community impact in its most recent Impact Report.
