finance

What Des Moines Residents Need to Understand About Workforce Development Options

Local offices run by Iowa Workforce Development offer career help and job programs that residents can use directly.

By Des Moines Business Desk · Published July 24, 2026

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Des Moines residents looking for job help can turn to IowaWORKS offices run by Iowa Workforce Development, including the site at 200 Army Post Road and the newer location at 525 S.W. Fifth St. in River Park.

These services matter because many adults and families in Polk, Dallas and Warren counties face shifts in employment that affect daily budgets and household stability. The Central Iowa Workforce Development Board oversees coordination across those counties, and National Able Network Inc. acts as the service provider for adult and dislocated worker programs.

Where to find help in the city

The River Park office at 525 S.W. Fifth St. took over from the former Park Fair Mall site and now houses about 22 vocational rehabilitation counselors. Vocational rehabilitation services remain available at the Army Post Road location as well. The main administration office at 1000 East Grand Avenue handles unemployment insurance claims and labor market data that residents may need when filing benefits or checking local hiring trends.

Programs that reach everyday workers

National Able Network Inc. assists more than 75,000 individuals each year through Workforce Investment Act training for adults and youth, the Dislocated Workers Program for those recently laid off, and Promise Jobs for Family Investment Program recipients. One-on-one career counseling, virtual workshops and veteran services are offered at the IowaWORKS sites without requiring prior enrollment in any particular plan.

Residents can contact Iowa Workforce Development through its listed offices or the agency website to learn which program fits their situation and to schedule an appointment for resume support or proficiency testing.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.

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