Client and Community Partner Reviews

Check out what our clients and community partners have to say about our work!

Kevin thomas mccarthy, Communications Strategist and Content Creator at Griffin & co.

“The new Des Moines is built on inviting people to the table and encouraging them to engage. Jen connects people from all walks of life and finds ways to involve them and make them feel valued. It is this inspiring trait that makes Jen’s events and business ventures successful.”

Micah kiel, ms / mba, tlmhc, FORMER WELLS FARGO FOUNDATION DIRECTOR

“Jen is one of the most talented non-profit leaders and fundraisers with a relational X-factor... she uses her visionary servant style leadership to inspire, manage, and grow sponsorships, and her commitment to data-driven success models is what gives sponsors confidence in their investments... When one considers that all these things happened while she was working in a volunteer capacity or limited contracted role, these feats move from remarkable to miraculous.”

Britney applegate, Sr philanthropy & community impact specialist

“Jen is recognized as a connected, respected and knowledgeable leader in the Greater Des Moines area. She is active in the business, non profit, and cultural communities and is often called upon for expertise, candor, and innovative approach to solve problems. In these settings, Jen unapologetically works to raise awareness of the challenges that our LGBTQ+ neighbors face and eagerly seeks opportunities to collaborate to improve those barriers. She has been an effective spokesperson for Capital City Pride and her efforts have raised the profile of the organization in the community.”

Becky kessel, big belle’s productions

“Jen has the ability to take a large goal and break it down into manageable parts with showing how they fit into the larger view. I would not be where I am without her help, 100% recommend.”

anne cooper, Phd & Svp, chief HR officer at Sammons financial

“Jen’s roles as emcee on stage at the WDM DEI Excellence awards and the BRAVO gala have provided the opportunity to demonstrate her strength at presenting and influencing, establishing her as a recognized force to be reckoned with in our community.”

BARBRA BOOSE, DES MOINES UNIVERSITY

“Jen Carruthers is a highly knowledgeable and outstanding ambassador for Des Moines. Whether you're new to the city or a longtime resident (like me - since 1980), you will benefit from her hospitality.”

Lindie hoaglund,F&G

“Jen has the unique combination of visionary thinking and the acumen to execute. She is a multi-tasker and quickly became my go-to with any questions ranging from marketing to logistics. Jen has a broad skillset that has positioned her as a respected leader and organizational master who played a key role in amalgamating a 100% volunteer committee to execute, and exceed, the vision of making CCP the Midwest’s premier destination during Pride.”

john garvey, broker & owner of proxymity llc

“My first work with Jennifer Carruthers began nearly 9 years ago as she was working to develop and launch Dapper DSM. My profession is commercial real estate brokerage, Jen was aware of my unique focus on the needs of tenants and buyers. Because of that understanding, Jen made sure those skills were put to work. Jen understood the value of assembling a team of professionals that were focused on the same objectives.”

amy jennings, executive director of lead dsm

“Jen represents exactly the type of leader we want and need in our community. That is one who cares, tears down walls, embraces opportunities to grow, and constantly identifies ways to make Greater Des Moines a better place for everyone.”

sara routh, former director of programming at girls rock!Des Moines

“I have been honored to work alongside Jennifer for four years, first as a volunteer and now as Director of Programming. Jen has always been an outstanding member of our team, and I continue to be impressed by her professionalism and admirable personal qualities. She constantly demonstrates her exceptional analytical skills and leads with integrity.”

Dan jansen, owner of molecule consulting

“Beyond being a natural leader, Jen has excellent written and verbal communication skills, is extremely organized, can work independently or in a team environment and is able to effectively multi-task to ensure that all activities are completed in a timely manner. I honestly do not know anyone who is able to successfully balance as much as Jen.”