Orchard Place: Supporting Youth and Families When It Matters Most

In every community, there are children and families navigating challenges that can feel overwhelming — and that’s where organizations like Orchard Place step in. Based right here in the Des Moines area, Orchard Place provides critical support for young people and families who are working through mental health concerns, behavioral challenges, and life transitions.

What makes Orchard Place stand out is its whole-family approach. Rather than focusing only on the child, their programs are designed to strengthen families as a unit, helping caregivers and youth build healthier communication, coping skills, and long-term stability together. Services are tailored to meet families where they are, whether that means in a clinical setting, at home, or in the community.

Orchard Place offers a wide range of support, including mental health counseling, crisis stabilization, and residential care for youth who need a safe and structured environment. These services are especially important for children who may be experiencing trauma, emotional distress, or behavioral struggles that interfere with school and daily life. By addressing these challenges early and compassionately, Orchard Place helps reduce long-term impacts and creates pathways toward healing.

Beyond direct services, Orchard Place also plays a role in preventative care and education, working alongside schools, social service agencies, and healthcare providers throughout central Iowa. This collaboration ensures families aren’t navigating difficult situations alone and that support systems are connected rather than fragmented.

Community involvement is a key part of Orchard Place’s mission. Local individuals, businesses, and teams can support their work through volunteering, donations, and awareness efforts — many of which require minimal cost but make a meaningful difference. From assembling care kits to supporting seasonal drives or simply sharing their mission, there are many accessible ways to get involved.

Organizations like Orchard Place remind us that strong communities are built by showing up for one another — especially during life’s hardest moments. Their work helps children feel safe, supported, and hopeful, while giving families the tools they need to move forward with confidence.