FAQ for The Friends of Des Moines Marina Steps: Building the Future of Our Waterfront — Together!

Who is the Founder?

Bettina Carey, a proud Des Moines resident and community advocate.

Does Bettina Carey represent the Friends group in her role on a City Advisory Board?

No.

She participates in this group solely as a private resident and neighbor—not in any official capacity.

Is this group part of the City of Des Moines?

No.

Friends of Des Moines Marina Steps is a 100% resident-led, private community group. We are not affiliated with, authorized by, or endorsed by the City or any city departments.

Why does this group exist?

To bring neighbors together around the Marina Steps area and support:

Community activation

Beautification

Cultural events

Volunteer stewardship

Civic engagement

The goal is connection and collaboration, not politics.​

Does the group speak for the City or influence City decisions?

No.

We do not represent the City or act on its behalf. We simply support community-building around an already-approved public project.

Is the Friends of Des Moines Marina a non- profit?

Friends of Des Moines Marina Steps is not a nonprofit. It’s a resident-led community group modeled after similar “Friends of” groups — such as Friends of Waterfront Park Seattle — which support cultural activities, beautification, events, and stewardship in waterfront areas.

There is no fee to join the group. However, a small circle of Founding Members have voluntarily committed $1,000 (or $83/month) to help fund early community-driven initiatives — similar to how other waterfront “Friends of” groups launch their first programs. This is 100% optional and only for those who choose to support these efforts financially.

Everyone else is welcome to participate, follow updates, and contribute ideas at no cost.

Our goal is simple: to bring residents together, support positive activation of the Marina Steps area, and ensure the community has a voice in shaping what happens there.

Where does the money go?

Funds support resident-driven initiatives such as:

Cultural programming

Beautification projects

Events

Public-space activation

Community stewardship activities

All funds stay in the community and benefit shared public spaces.

Why create a Friends group now?

Because activating public spaces early leads to:

Stronger community ownership

Better long-term outcomes

More vibrant waterfront spaces

Positive economic impacts

Increased civic pride and volunteerism

What is Our Vision?

The Friends of Des Moines Marina Steps entity was created to champion the success of the Marina Steps — a transformative waterfront destination designed to connect our vibrant downtown on Marine View Drive to the heart of the marina. This entity unites residents, business owners, and community leaders who believe in driving thoughtful economic growth and creating a legacy space for generations to come.

What is Our Goal?

We are interested in supporting the long-term success, beautification, and activation of the Marina Steps. Every founding member will help ensure that this landmark project thrives as a hub for recreation, culture, and community connection.

The goal is connection and collaboration, not politics.

How do I Become a Founding Member?

We are currently inviting a select group of visionary Founding Members — residents who share our commitment to seeing the Marina Steps come to life. Founding Members will play a vital role in shaping this effort and will be recognized as the cornerstone supporters of this historic project.​

A small circle of Founding Members voluntarily contribute $1,000/year ($83/month) to help launch early community projects, similar to other “Friends of” groups nationwide. This is optional.

Membership is open only to those who share our enthusiasm for the Marina Steps and its role in Des Moines’ future.

Join Us:

To become a Founding Member or learn more about partnership opportunities, please contact:

📧 friends@seattlemeansbusiness.com, Attn: Bettina Carey, Founder - Friends of Des Moines Marina Steps.

Together, let’s make the Marina Steps a destination that defines Des Moines’ next great chapter.

Disclaimer

Friends of Des Moines Marina Steps is an independent, resident-led community group. It is not affiliated with, authorized by, endorsed by, or connected to the City of Des Moines or any city departments, boards, or officials. I share information about this group solely as a private resident and neighbor, not in my role as a member of any City advisory board., or services. We are a group of friends dedicated to doing good for our town!