Leslie Garman

Leslie Garman joined DMARC as the Director of Development and Outreach in May 2017 and brings a wealth of nonprofit, fund development, special event, volunteer organization, and communications experience. Organizations with whom she has worked have included nonprofits healthcare, arts and culture, and human service sectors. Locally these have included, Employee & Family Resources (EFR), Junior League of Greater Des Moines, Spina Bifida Association of Iowa, Des Moines Metro Opera, the Chrysalis Foundation, House of Mercy, and the American Heart Association.

As a heart survivor herself, Leslie spent the majority of her career (nearly two decades) with the American Heart Association. While there, she conducted hundreds of special events, assisting communities as they worked to hold educational and advocacy events. Her most recognizable accomplishments in Des Moines include the creation and founding of the greater Des Moines Heart Ball and Go Red for Women (previously known as Nurturing Women’s Hearts).

Leslie is a graduate of Morningside University in Sioux City, Iowa and received her CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) designation in 2013. Today she is active with several organizations, including the Central Iowa chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, the Mid-Iowa Planned Giving Council, the Windsor Heights Foundation, MOIsson , and the Affinity Breakfast Club.

What I can help with? Making our mission a reality!  planned giving, sponsorship, special events, committee involvement, nontraditional forms of giving (Stock, vehicle, IRA gifts) giving your time, talent, or treasure.