Champions for Children Thursday, September 17, 2026

2026 Champions for Children

Join us for Champions for Children, our premier fundraising event celebrating the individuals and organizations who champion the well-being of children and help ICCJ make a lasting difference in their lives.

Date: Thursday, September 17, 2026
Time: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Location: Gilbert & Cook, 5058 Grand Ridge Dr, West Des Moines, IA 50265

2026 Champions for Children Award Recipients

This year, we are proud to honor two outstanding leaders whose commitment to children and families reflects the very heart of ICCJ’s mission.

Leadership Award: Angela Connolly, Polk County Board of Supervisors
Angela Connolly has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to strengthening our community and supporting children and families. Through her leadership on the Polk County Board of Supervisors, she has helped advance initiatives that make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and the families who care for them.

Advocacy Award: Jennifer Hahn, Youth Justice Initiative
Jennifer Hahn has dedicated more than two decades to improving the lives of children, families, and the West Des Moines community. Her commitment to advocacy, service, and ensuring young people have the support and opportunities they need exemplifies the spirit of the Champions for Children Advocacy Award.

An Evening of Celebration and Impact

The evening will spotlight the heart of our mission:

• Honoring Champions: Celebrating Angela Connolly and Jennifer Hahn and recognizing their commitment to children and families.
• Celebrating Community: Connecting with fellow ICCJ supporters, advocates, and community leaders who believe every child deserves a voice.
• Supporting Children: Raising critical funds to strengthen ICCJ’s programs and provide individualized support to children navigating difficult family circumstances.
• Gathering in Style: Enjoying an evening of celebration at the beautiful Gilbert & Cook, the perfect backdrop for recognizing those who help children be children.

Past Champions for Children Honorees

We are proud to have previously recognized:

• Carol Bodensteiner – 2025 Champions for Children Advocate Award
• Retired Juvenile Judge Constance “Connie” Cohen – 2025 Champions for Children Leadership Award
• Mindy O’Donnell – 2024 Champions for Children Advocate Award
• Bruce Buchanan (posthumously) – Champions for Children Leadership Award

Your Support Makes a Difference

Funds raised through Champions for Children directly support ICCJ’s programs, including youth divorce workshops and legal representation for children in high-conflict custody cases. These services provide critical support to children navigating some of the most difficult moments in their lives, ensuring they have a voice, an advocate, and the opportunity to move forward with greater confidence and stability.

Join us on September 17 as we celebrate the champions who help children be children—and help make a difference for children throughout our community.

Thank you to our wonderful sponsors:

Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Please contact Andrea Wright, Director of Fund Development, for more information.

Look Good, Do Good at Mr. B Clothing Thursday, June 11, 2026

Thank you to those who shopped and supported ICCJ at Mr. B Clothing this year!  The event raised over $4,400 for ICCJ programs, helping provide critical services for children and families navigating high-conflict custody cases.

ICCJ extends a sincere thank you to Mr. B Clothing for their incredible partnership and for helping make the evening possible!

Des Moines Downtown Farmers' Market, Saturday, June 13, 2026