Wellmark to provide support to continue the Isiserettes legacy
Isiserettes to leverage award as part of a capital campaign

DES MOINES, Iowa (Dec. 10, 2018) — Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield announced a $100,000 award to the Isiserettes. This award kicked off the Isiserettes capital campaign for their new building, located at 2124 Grand Avenue.

The Isiserettes are composed of both males and females ranging from ages 7 to 18 years old. Two of the major goals set for the youth are to build character and social skills. They stress the importance of a formal education while helping the youth develop their creative and natural abilities.

“We are so grateful to Wellmark for their generous contribution to our capital campaign,” said Cory Williams, Isiserettes lead drum instructor. “We’ve never had a home of our own. Aside from impacting young people’s lives, this is probably the biggest accomplishment of what we’ve been able to do in our 38 years.”

Wellmark has also challenged the Isiserettes to raise an additional $200,000 of new monies by Dec. 31, 2019. Once these new monies or signed commitment letters are in hand, Wellmark will make an additional $100,000 contribution to the scholarship endowment fund.

“The Isiserettes are based on tradition, pride, dedication, and making a difference and Wellmark shares similar values,” said John Forsyth, Wellmark Chairman and CEO. “We recognize the value this organization is providing youth in our community.”

Isiserettes builds upon strong foundation
Formed in 1980 as a way to give Des Moines-area youth something exciting and positive to do with their community, the Isiserettes now have their own place to call home. This will allow for the organization to expand programming by creating additional volunteer opportunities for the Des Moines community.

“This location allows us to work with the kids on a more full-time basis,” said Williams. “Working with the kids on Wednesdays and Saturdays, we’ve amassed a 95 percent graduation rate with a part-time investment in the kids. Our new home will allow us to have more time and gather additional resources to provide more opportunities for the kids — ultimately improving their lives.”

To learn more about the Isiserettes watch this short video. To learn more about the capital campaign or how to volunteer with the Isiserettes, visit isiserettes.org or contact Cory Williams at coryrwilliams10@gmail.com.