Prairie Meadows has given $468 Million to the Community

Prairie Meadows has been a vital part of the central Iowa community since it began operations in 1989. Throughout the years, our mission has remained the same: to promote economic development, agriculture, jobs, tourism and entertainment and provide financial contributions to programs and organizations that improve the quality of life for all Iowans and, in general, to promote social welfare.

As part of our ongoing commitment to Polk County and the state of Iowa, Prairie Meadows supports a broad range of nonprofit proposals and projects through our Community Relations department. By doing so, Prairie Meadows hopes to provide qualified organizations the funding necessary to improve the quality of life for the enrichment of the citizens of Polk County and surrounding areas.

While many know Prairie Meadows as a horse track and casino, few are aware of its status as a 501(c)(4) nonprofit corporation. Since 1996, the lives of thousands of Iowans have been touched through public service programs made possible by millions of dollars paid by Prairie Meadows to Polk County, Iowa, and direct donations to more than 500 local charities.

Working towards Prairie Meadows' goal of economic development, the Community Relations department administers the Community Betterment Grant Program, the Prairie Meadows Scholarship Program, the Legacy Grant Program and manages community partnerships.