I recently had the chance to visit the Evelyn K. Davis Center. I’ve heard the name mentioned and have driven past its location on 8th and University several times. But I had no idea what was going on in that location and I am very, very impressed.
The Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Familes was established in July of 2012 to provide integrated delivery of support services, education re-engagement, and on-the-job training opportunities for individuals in Central Iowa who are unemployed or underemployed, disenfranchised, or who face barriers to employment. All services are provided in a single location. This first-in-the-nation model works to mitigate unemployment, increase achievement of basic education, and improve the lives of families in Iowa.
When you walk in the door, you will find several small offices busily working with individuals through private conversations. As you walk through the halls, you will find several training and meeting rooms. This space was bustling with activity. When I was there, all of the meeting rooms we taken, and a couple of classes were being held in open spaces as well. There was a very real buzz of activity in the air. Good things were happening for the people working hard to achieve their goals.
The reason for my visit was to discuss Dad’s with a Purpose with the staff of the Evelyn K. Davis Center. Dad’s with a Purpose provides much needed training on how to be a parent to young men and women who may not have had this kind of role model in their lives. The goal is to break the cycle of bad parenting. Good fathers have children who become good fathers.
I’m glad I had a chance to visit and I’m excited for the good work that can come from the partnership between the Evelyn K. Davis Center and Dad’s with a Purpose.
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