Talent Collective DSM is helping young people across Des Moines build pathways toward meaningful, financially sustaining careers. Serving more than 350 high school students and recent graduates in partnership with Des Moines Public Schools, the organization provides career coaching, skill development, and direct connections to employment opportunities in high-demand industries.
One of those growing pathways is Health Sciences - a field where students gain hands-on experience and prepare for future careers in healthcare. But for many participants, something as simple as purchasing required healthcare scrubs can create a significant financial barrier to participation in training, clinical experiences, and employment opportunities.
Thanks to a grant from Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa, that barrier has been removed.
Variety grant funding provided healthcare scrubs for students enrolled in Talent Collective DSM’s Health Sciences pathways, ensuring participants have the essential work attire needed to fully engage in their programs. With the proper uniforms, students can arrive prepared, confident, and focused on building the skills needed for successful healthcare careers.
Variety’s support directly removes a financial barrier for our participants and allows them to fully engage in their healthcare training. When students don’t have to worry about how they will afford required uniforms, they can focus on building skills, gaining confidence, and preparing for meaningful careers. This investment helps ensure our participants are ready to step into the workforce and succeed.
Noelle Nelson - President of Talent Collective DSM
For many students and families, the cost of required uniforms can limit access to opportunities and impact confidence before training even begins. By covering this expense, Variety’s support is helping students feel equipped and empowered as they pursue their goals.
This investment is doing more than providing scrubs, it is creating opportunity, removing obstacles, and helping students take important first steps toward careers that will strengthen both their futures and the future of the community.
