DMACC Seeks New Operator for Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families
Table of Contents
A vital Central Iowa career and education hub is seeking a new partner to ensure its continued operation. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) today issued a request for proposals (RFP) for the next entity to operate the Evelyn K.Davis Center for Working Families.
DMACC initially explored a potential sale of the center’s property to local nonprofit St. Vincent de Paul des Moines in September, envisioning the organization as the new operator. However, those plans were put on hold in October following feedback from the community.
The decision to seek a broader range of proposals stems from funding challenges facing the center, which first opened its doors in 2012. According to a statement from DMACC President Rob Denson, the center’s future “depends on its ability to become self-sufficient or take on a new partner.”
Eligibility and Application Details
The RFP is open to a diverse range of organizations, including nonprofit organizations, governmental entities, and accredited educational institutions. Interested applicants are required to attend one of two scheduled building tours: January 14 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., or January 28 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The deadline for proposal submissions is February 28, with an anticipated transition date of july 1.
A Search for Alignment and Commitment
The announcement emphasizes the importance of finding a partner that shares the center’s core values. DMACC is seeking an organization “prepared to lead this extraordinary community resource with care, humility and commitment.” The college hopes to ensure a seamless continuation of the services provided to Central Iowans.
The full RFP document is available for review at dmacc.edu/ekdc.
This move signals DMACC’s commitment to finding a sustainable path forward for the Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families, ensuring its continued role as a crucial resource for the community.
Why: DMACC is seeking a new operator for the Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families due to ongoing funding challenges that threaten the center’s sustainability.
Who: The key players are DMACC,potential operators (nonprofits,governmental entities,and accredited educational institutions),and the Central Iowa community served by the center. Initial discussions involved St. Vincent de paul Des Moines, but plans were paused after community feedback.
What: DMACC has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to find a new entity to operate the Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families. The RFP outlines eligibility requirements and a submission deadline.
How did it end?: The process is ongoing. The RFP is open until February 28th, with a transition expected by July 1st.The outcome will be persistent by the proposals received and DMACC’s selection of a partner committed to the center’s long-term viability.
