A Safe Place to Sleep for Dyersville Area Youth

In Dyersville and surrounding communities, at least 40 children lack a safe, comfortable bed. They sleep on couches, blankets and even the floor, which impacts their health, happiness and ability to learn. 

Keith Kramer is leading local efforts to support these children. In 2021, he approached the Dyersville Area Community Foundation about expanding his chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a national organization, to Worthington, Dyersville, Petersburg, Luxemberg, Farley and Epworth. 

“We were all surprised to learn that there was a big need for beds in this area,” says Michelle Grover, Foundation executive director. 

A $10,000 grant from the Foundation supported a “bed build day,” when 30 local volunteers assembled frames. Community members donated 15 sets of bedding that morning, and businesses contributed additional materials. 

Today, more than 20 beds have been delivered, each with a new mattress, sheets, a pillow and a blanket or handmade quilt. 

“It feels great knowing our community cares,” says Lisa Maiers, Foundation board vice chair. “The physical act of building a bed with your own hands, knowing it will have a real impact on kids in our community, creates a sense of pride and purpose. As a volunteer, it doesn’t really get any better than that.” 

The Community Foundation works to understand local needs, build partnerships and provide support. You can address needs in your community with a gift to the Foundation’s endowment. Visit dbqfoundation.org/dacf to learn more.