Together for Refugees: Join the Movement

At the Shalom Community Impact Center (SCIC), our mission is to uplift lives and foster hope for refugees and immigrants arriving in Iowa, enabling them to thrive as new Americans. What began in 2010 as a small fellowship of Congolese refugees gathering for prayer and mutual support has blossomed into a nonprofit serving diverse New Iowans across Polk and Dallas counties.

Rooted in Lived Experience

Founder and Executive Director Rev. Pastor Eugene Kiruhura knows this journey firsthand. He fled civil war in the Democratic Republic of Congo, arriving in Des Moines in 2007 with only the clothes on his back and not a word of English.

His own experience navigating a new country inspired him to ensure no refugee or immigrant walks their journey alone. Today, SCIC provides culturally responsive, life-changing services to help New Iowans integrate successfully and flourish.

Growing Through Community

To better serve the growing refugee population, especially in Urbandale, Clive, Johnston, and West Des Moines, SCIC became an officially registered nonprofit in 2021, with a center located at 7605 Aurora Avenue, Urbandale.

A launch celebration marked this milestone with music, food, dance, and heartfelt speeches. One mother shared:

“Please don’t stop … we want to grow

and continue learning so we can help our families.”

Programs That Empower

SCIC offers a wide range of free programs to support children, youth, and adults:

Preschool (ages 3–5): School readiness and early development and free lunch.
After-School Academic support): Homework help and, held twice a week
Summer Programs: Academic enrichment, field trips, arts, and digital literacy
Adult English Language Learning (ELL): Classes with culturally and linguistically relevant support
Computer Classes & Job Readiness: Digital literacy, communication skills, and employment preparation

All programs are free and designed to be inclusive, welcoming every family member.

Aiming Higher, Reaching Further

SCIC is more than a service provider; it’s a community catalyst. Our goal is to remove barriers and build bridges for New Iowans to access educational, social, and economic opportunities.

With the support of about 10 dedicated volunteers, SCIC creates a space where refugees can learn, connect, and thrive, empowering individuals, strengthening families, and enriching our entire community.

Join the Movement

You can be part of this powerful mission:

Volunteer: Become a tutor, mentor, translator, or help with events
Donate: Fuel our programs and services (all contributions are tax-deductible)
Partner: Advocate for policies and resources that uplift New Iowans

Together, we can nurture hope, build belonging, and inspire strength because when refugees are supported, our whole community grows.

Together we Rise: Celebrating New Iowans

Together, We Build Brighter Futures and Inspire Hope

Team Members