BrownWinick Partners with Starts Right Here Movement to Support & Empower At-Risk Youth in Des Moines

BrownWinick is thrilled to partner with the Starts Right Here Movement which provides support and mentorship for at-risk youth in the metro area. Our Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Working Group has been dedicating time and resources to assist Starts Right Here President, Will Keeps in accomplishing the movement’s goals. “Our goal is to create meaningful and lasting relationships with these kids,” said Dani Smid, attorney, and Chair of BrownWinick’s Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion committee.  “Sometimes it’s as simple as showing up & being present, listening to their story, offering mentorship, and serving as a resource.” In addition to on-site support, BrownWinick has also held successful internal fundraising events to support Starts Right Here programming.  

The Starts Right Here is a Des Moines-based 501(c)3 organization designed to serve disadvantaged and at-risk youth in a supporting and empowering environment. Its mission is to educate, equip, and empower young people living in disadvantaged circumstances using the arts, entertainment, hip hop, music, educational programming, and a variety of other methods to break down the barriers of fear, intimidation, and other damaging factors leading to a sense of being disenfranchised, forgotten, and rejected.  

Led by President William Holmes aka “Will Keeps”, the organization’s goal is twofold: (1) ensuring that each student obtains a high school diploma and full-time employment upon graduation; and (2) providing students with mentorship and networking opportunities with local community leaders. Starts Right Here works toward the long-term goal of creating a pool of workers who are educated, equipped, and empowered to build successful lives.  

Will is dedicated to making a change for others so they don’t have to go through life without feeling cared for, loved, or being in a home where they can feel safe. His legacy started when he began giving back to his community and to youth who are faced with situations similar to those that he was in when he was younger. 

If you would like to learn more about the different ways to get involved with Starts Right Here visit their website, and visit our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion page to learn more about BrownWinick’s DEI efforts in the community.