SPONSORSHIPPROPOSALwww.iowajuneteenth.org2025Celebrating 35 years in 2025515-508-9688iowajuenteenth@gmail.comFOLLOW US : @iowajuneteenthRemembering Our HistoryReleasing The PastReshaping Our Future Message
On “Freedom’s Eve,” or the eve of January1, 1863, the first Watch Night services tookplace. At the stroke of midnight, prayerswere answered as all enslaved people inConfederate States were declared legallyfree. Union soldiers, many of whom wereblack, marched onto plantations andacross cities in the south reading smallcopies of the Emancipation Proclamationspreading the news of freedom inConfederate States. Only through theThirteenth Amendment didemancipation end slavery throughout theUnited States.However, not everyone in Confederateterritory would immediately be free. Eventhough the Emancipation Proclamationwas made effective in 1863, it could not beimplemented in places still underConfederate control. As a result, in thewesternmost Confederate state of Texas,enslaved people would not be free untilJune 19, 1865, when some 2,000 Uniontroops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas. Thearmy announced that the more than250,000 enslaved black people in thestate were free by executive decree. Thisday came to be known as "Juneteenth,"by the newly freed people in Texas. HistoryWhite Star: Represents Texas & freedom of Black Americansin all 50 states. Burst Around The Star: Inspired by a nova, or new star, thissymbol represents a new beginning for Black Americans. Arc: Represents a new horizon, full of opportunities andpromise for Black Americans. Red, White, Blue: This symbolizes that enslaved people andtheir descendants are Americans.
The Iowa Juneteenth Observance has been in existence for 35 years, and wasfounded by Gary Lawson (Founder & General Chair Emeritus of IJO) in 1990.On April 11, 2002 Governor Tom Vilsack signed into law recognizing IowaJuneteenth as an official holiday in the state of Iowa to be celebrated on thethird Saturday in June.Gary Lawson1990 - 2012 & 2015General ChairEmeritusChris Johnson2013 - 2014Dwana Bradley2015 - Present
To build a stronger, more connected community by providing platformsthat celebrate freedom, liberty, and responsible citizenship. Throughactivities that address economic, health, social, and political development,we aim to meet the needs of our community while fosteringunderstanding and appreciation for Juneteenth's significance in Americanhistory. We envision an Iowa that embraces humanity, where the lessonsand values of Juneteenth inspire a future rooted in justice, compassion,and unity for generations to come.To educate Iowans on the history of Juneteenth and preserve Juneteenthhistory for future generations.MissionVisionOur TeamDWANA BRADLEYGENERALCHAIRPERSONIowa Urban MediaKOURTNEY PERRY PROJECTMANAGERPrivacy, LLCCLAUDIA YOUNG-HEADJUNETEENTH JUBILEECOMMITTEE CHAIR Des Moines Public SchoolsDONOVAN MCCAMEYGOSPEL COMMITTEECHAIRWellmarkMADISON SCONIERS VOLUNTEERCOMMITTEESconiers ConsultingCORY PATTONCHARITY GOLFCOMMITTEE CHAIRPHILLIP LITTLEENTERTAINMENTCOMMITTEEAll Voices DSMNIKKI GOLDMANGRAPHIC DESIGNERLosRos GraphixTRACY BRADLEYNOMINATION COMMITTEECHAIRIowa Dept ofTransportationNAUTIKA BRADLEYESSAY COMMITTEE CHAIRDes Moines Public SchoolsTREVONTE DIGGSPHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHERCinema PixelMediaBERT MOODYPHOTOGRAPHER Imagez PhotoStudioTIFFANY BRAXTONVICE CHAIRDes MoinesPublic Schools
Secure sustainable funding to support ongoing Iowa Juneteenth initiativesand events throughout the year through the development of acomprehensive fundraising plan that includes grants, donations, andpartnerships. With an emphasis on establishing corporate sponsorships withorganizations that align with our mission.Collaborate with local community groups and organizations to expand thevolunteer network.Develop and implement educational programs for organizations, schools,community centers, businesses, and online platforms. Create and distributeeducational materials, including pamphlets, videos, and online resources.Partner with educational institutions to integrate Juneteenth intocurriculum.Ensure inclusivity and representation in Iowa Juneteenth celebrations byconducting outreach programs to engage diverse communities anddemographics. Along with collaborating with cultural organizations tocreate inclusive events.01. FINANCIALIncrease visibility and media coverage for Iowa Juneteenth events and theorganization's mission. By implementing a strategic media plan thatincludes press releases, social media campaigns, and partnerships withinfluencers.Goals for 2024 - 202602. EDUCATIONAL03. DEMOGRAPHICS04. MEDIA05. VOLUNTEERS
We foster awareness andunderstanding of Juneteenth, westrive to create a lasting impact onthe cultural fabric of Iowans aimingto impact individuals, communities,and society at large.By staying true to our mission, vision, and core values, we aspire to make asignificant contribution to the cultural fabric of our society and create alasting legacy of creativity, inspiration, and cultural enrichment.ImpactCore ValuesThrough education, celebration, andcommunity-building initiatives, weaim to empower people to embracehistory, take pride in their heritage,and actively contribute to positivesocial change.EmpowermentWe work together with communitypartners, local organizations, andstakeholders, enabling us to poolresources, share ideas, and createinclusive events that resonate with adiverse audience.CollaborationWe prioritize active involvement andconnection with the communitieswe serve to encourage participation,dialogue, and shared experiencesthat values humanity and history.Community EngagementWhether through artisticexpressions, interactive exhibits, orunique programming, we believecreativity enhances the impact andresonance of our initiatives.CreativityInclusivity is non-negotiable ineverything we do. We are dedicatedto creating spaces and events thatwelcome individuals from allbackgrounds, cultures, andidentities. Inclusivity
Jan - FebMarch - AprilMay - JuneMay - June61.9%March - April23.8%Jan - Feb14.3%@iowajuneteenth9.7k Followers80%increase inviews63%increase inimpressions30%increase infollowersMedia EngagementThe 2024 media engagement andrelations was spread throughout the stateof Iowa. Our goal is to reach more Iowansto provide history on the significance ofthe Juneteenth holiday. Through mediareleases, news coverage, and social media,we were able to see a 30% increase inattendees for all events that were hosted.
EducationON-SITE SEMINARSDo you have an organization thatwould like a speaker to come onsite to provide education aboutthe history of Juneteenth? We offer an education seminarthat will explain the history andculture, along with resources thatwill aide in the continuededucation for the organization.This is for individuals in varioussettings. The seminar is structuredaccording to the age group of theorganization.www.iowajuneteenth.org/educationLUNCH & LEARNAre you looking to host a one-hoursession for your network about thehistory of Juneteenth?Schedule an engaging Lunch andLearn session to explore thesignificance of Juneteenth. In thisinformative session, we will delveinto the history, culturalimportance, and contemporaryrelevance of Juneteenth. Theseminar is structured according tothe age group of the organization.Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your cultural competence andcontribute to a workplace that values humanity.
Nominations WINNERS RECEIVE:The essay contest is statewide and opento “all students” enrolled in grades 9through 11. We encourage essayists toenlist the guidance of a teacher or otheradult when completing the essay. Theessay contest serves as an inspirationalvehicle for youth to strengthenappreciation for: Scholarship1.Cultural diversity2.Enhancement of communityrelations. 3.Student Essay Contest1st Place - $1,0002nd Place: $5003rd Place - $250Iowa Juneteenth AwardsOur award ceremony celebrates 7different individuals that have beennominated by their communitymembers. All nominees must reside inthe state of Iowa and fulfill therequirements of each category. James Durham Health Practitionerof The Year Award1.Iowa Citizen of The Year Award2.Mary McLeod Bethune EducationAward3.Rocky West Gospel Legacy Award4.Jesse F. Taylor Advocacy Award5.Del “Saxman” Jones Blues LegacyAward 6.Liberty Award 7.ContestsNomination and contest awardees willbe honored during the JuneteenthJubilee on Thursday, June 19th, 2025.
Sponsorship ProposalIOWA JUNETEENTH OBSERVANCERemembering Our HistoryReleasing The PastReshaping Our Future
Celebrating 35 Years in 2025Remember Our History, Release the Past, Reshape Our FutureJoin us in commemorating this historic milestone as we honor Iowa Juneteenth and itssignificance to freedom, liberty, and responsible citizenship. Your sponsorship willsupport yearlong programming, educational initiatives, and events that inspire andempower the Greater Des Moines area and the state of Iowa.Presenting Sponsor - $35,000Recognition as the Presenting Sponsor for Iowa Juneteenth2025.Top-tier branding on all event materials, including banners,print, and digital promotions.Prominent logo placement and hyperlink on the IowaJuneteenth website.Acknowledgment in all media releases and promotionalcampaigns.Opportunity to speak at the signature Juneteenth event andother major programs of your choice. Full-page ad in the official Iowa Juneteenth Urban ExperienceMagazine special Juneteenth edition. 16 VIP tickets to Juneteenth Jubilee. Vendor Table at Neighbor’s Day celebrationSocial media spotlight as Presenting Sponsor with dedicatedposts.Logo in all video promotions as presenting sponsor. PRESENTING SPONSORLEGACYSPONSORLegacy Sponsor - $20,000 Recognition as a Legacy Sponsor on all event materials.Logo placement on the Iowa Juneteenth website with ahyperlink.Acknowledgment in media releases and promotionalcampaigns.Opportunity to provide remarks at one key event.Half-page ad in the official Iowa Juneteenth Urban ExperienceMagazine special Juneteenth edition. 8 VIP tickets to Juneteenth Jubilee. Vendor Table at Neighbor’s Day celebrationSocial media spotlight with featured posts.Logo in all video promotions as legacy sponsor.
Freedom Sponsor - $10,000Recognition as a Freedom Sponsor on event materials.Logo placement on the Iowa Juneteenth website.Quarter-page ad in the official Iowa Juneteenth Urban.Experience Magazine special Juneteenth edition. 8 VIP tickets to Juneteenth Jubilee. Vendor Table at Neighbor’s Day celebration.Social media acknowledgment.FREEDOMSPONSOREquality Sponsor - $5,000Recognition as an Equality Sponsor on event materials.Logo placement on the Iowa Juneteenth website.Third-page ad in official Iowa Juneteenth Urban.Experience Magazine special Juneteenth edition. 4 VIP tickets to Juneteenth Jubilee. Vendor Table at Neighbor’s Day celebration.Social media acknowledgment.EQUALITYSPONSORHeritage Sponsor - $2,500Recognition as a Heritage Sponsor on select eventmaterials.Business size card ad in official Iowa Juneteenth Urban.Experience Magazine special Juneteenth edition.2 VIP tickets to Juneteenth Jubilee. Social media acknowledgment.HERITAGESPONSORCommunity Sponsor - $500Recognition as a Community Sponsor on select eventmaterials.Name listed on Iowa Juneteenth website and Urban.Experience Magazine special Juneteenth edition.Social media acknowledgment.COMMUNITYSPONSOR
DART Transit BusCelebrating 35 Years in 2025Remember Our History, Release the Past, Reshape Our FutureWe invite you to join us in commemorating this historic occasion by sponsoringthe Iowa Juneteenth DART bus. Your sponsorship will showcase yourorganization’s support while fostering awareness and unity within ourcommunity. Your contribution will ensure that the legacy of Iowa Juneteenth iswidely recognized as the bus travels throughout the city, sharing the inspiringmessage of Iowa Juneteenth with thousands of residents daily. Together, wecan honor the past and inspire future generations.2023 Design2024 DesignDART Sponsor - $1,500*Logo on Iowa JuneteenthDART BusRecognition as a DART BusCommunity Sponsor onselect materialsName listed on IowaJuneteenth website andUrban Experience Magazinespecial Iowa JuneteentheditionSocial mediaacknowledgement*Payment must be made in full within timeframeallotted in order to secure sponsorship.
EVENT BUDGET ESTIMATESEVENTS$115,000$11,000$51,000$5,000$5,000$3,000$10,500$214,300Charity Golf OutingJuneteenth JubileeHealth AwarenessClassesEmbrace The Race 5KGospel CelebrationGRAND TOTALCOST$1,800$1,000$1,000Nocturnal Science NightMovie NightThank You LuncheonDART Transit BusBy partnering with Iowa Juneteenth, you’re investing in amission to educate, inspire, and celebrate African Americanculture and history. Together, we can build a future thatreflects the principles of liberty, freedom, and responsiblecitizenship. To secure your sponsorship or learn more, please contact:Dwana Bradleyiowajuneteenth@gmail.comPayment Details: We accept ACH, Credit & Debit Cards, andChecks. All approved sponsorships must be paid within 30days of invoice. Thank you for your support and commitment to our community!Neighbor’s Day CelebrationCurating Change Art Exhibit & Other Art Events$10,000
46Sponsors25-3435%35-4425%18-2420%45-5410%55+10%Race Per Percentage0 10 20 30 40 50African AmericanCaucasianASianHispanic/Latino5,000Guests100Vendors50Volunteers12Entertainment ActsNeighbor’s DayCelebrationEVENT DEMOGRAPHICSAgeESTIMATEDECONOMICIMPACT$500KThe Neighbor's Day Celebrations ishosted yearly on the 3rd Saturdayof June. It is the annualcelebration in Iowa held at theWestern Gateway Park inDowntown Des Moines, Iowa forthe entire community to attendfor FREE. Live music, smallbusiness shopping, food, art,education, children play area, andMORE!2025 DATE:SATURDAY, JUNE 21
Curating ChangeOur first annual CuratingChange Art Exhibit featured 11local arts that showcasedtheir work inside theUniversity of Iowa PappaJohnEducation Center during theannual Neighbor’s Daycelebration.
Embrace the Race 5k promotes healthequity, spreads cultural awareness, andunites community together. This eventis the first in-person (and live virtual)inclusive movement race in Des Moines,Iowa (originated in Waverly, Iowa). Itoffers an opportunity to provideeveryone of all abilities, socio-economicbackgrounds, and cultures to move inunity together. Registion is open for children 7 and up! Embrace the Race 5k also provides aSpotify playlist with socially consciousand uplifting music as a positivereminder to 'dance like no one iswatching', living and moving freely inunity! This race will look, feel, and beremembered differently. Theconnections made while joining us willbe long lasting, lead to courageousconversations, friendships, and change!Embrace the Race is the official 5k raceof Iowa Juneteenth.$5000Awarded15Sponsors
Gospel music holds a profound place inAfrican American culture and history,serving as a powerful expression ofhope, love, faith, unity, and community.It offers comfort to the soul, providing avoice for life’s struggles and victories.This timeless genre uplifts and inspires,weaving together stories of resilienceand grace. Join us in September 2025 aswe celebrate the rich legacy andenduring impact of gospel music.. This event is FREE to the public and weencourage all to join us for an eveningof praise. Past Involvement:Adrienne BrownISU Jubilee Gospel ChoirEmmanuel Church Of God In ChristCosmopolitan Church of PrayerChoirFormerly known as the CommunityBuilders Appreciation Banquet. Thisevent is hosted on the 3rd Thursday ofevery June. The community comestogether to recognize the 7 individualsnominated along with our 3 high schoolessay contest winners, networking,charity silent auction, and a fire sidechat. This is a ticketed event that helpsprovide additional funds to continue thesupport of Iowa Juneteenth eventsthroughout the year. Juneteenth JubileeGospel Celebration400Guests7Awards$1,750Scholarships250Guests Offering$1,250
To continue our year long celebrations, we host anannual Movie Night for families to attend for FREE.This is a drive-in style set up located at Valley WestMall with light refreshments that are available topurchase. Each year a movie is selected that willbring laughter, smiles, and joy for all to cometogether. Movie NightNocturnal Science NightCharity Golf OutingOur annual Juneteenth Charity Golf Outing is a funfilled day of activities on the green. Teams of 2 or 4attend to take home the title while giving back tothe Iowa Juneteenth Observance organization tohelp continue to provide free events andprogramming to the community. Opportunities tobe the Hole in One, Technology, and Pin Flagsponsors are available. New in 2024, we hosted our first Nocturnal ScienceNight with over 300 attendees. This is a FREEexclusive event for families to attend in theevening. An opportunity to explore the world ofScience with hands-on exhibits and new dynamiclive demonstrations.Committee Lead ByGolf Tournament Lead By:2023 Movie2024 Movie2024 Sponsor
STAY TUNEDTO OURTOP LEADERS IN DES MOINES
www.iowajuneteenth.org/shopShop JuneteenthAll proceeds go back tothe development ofprograms for thecommunity. Enjoy the comfort ofIowa Juneteenth withthese quality designs.Support the education ofhistory. More itemsavailable online.2023 T-Shirt Design Winner
Thank you to our 2024 Sponsors
Thank you to our 2024 Sponsors
Thank you for your continued support providingeducation to Iowans for many generations to come. FOLLOW US : @iowajuneteenthwww.iowajuneteenth.orgVISIT OUR WEBSITEiowajuneteenth@gmail.com515-508-9688