Polk County Sheriff’s Office and Des Moines Driving Range Welcome Refugee Children for Golf and Mentorship Program
DES MOINES, Iowa This past Tuesday morning, 17 refugee children from local charitable organizations were welcomed to the Des Moines Driving Range for a morning of golf instruction, personal mentorship, and community engagement.
The event continues a decades-long tradition led by Polk County Sheriff Kevin Schneider. Through this established program, the Sheriff’s Office introduces young participants to the game of golf while demonstrating its broader commitment to protecting and supporting all residents of Polk County — including newly arrived refugees who may be unaccustomed to positive, supportive interactions with law enforcement.
On Tuesday, Sheriff Schneider was joined by 21 volunteers from his staff. Together with volunteers from local refugee services, the deputies provided each child with individualized, one-on-one attention and personalized golf lessons. Sheriff Schneider also arranged lunch to be served to every participant, creating a welcoming and nurturing environment.
This longstanding initiative has produced meaningful, lasting results. Thirteen young alumni of the program recently won the 2026 Iowa State High School Championship in soccer, reflecting the confidence, discipline, and community connections developed through these experiences.
The Des Moines Driving Range extends its deepest appreciation to Sheriff Kevin Schneider, the 21 dedicated volunteers from his office, the staff and volunteers of the participating local refugee services organizations, and all who contributed to the success of Tuesday’s program. Their generosity of time and spirit continues to strengthen our community and enrich the lives of local youth.