The Waukee Area Historical Society is incredibly honored and grateful to be named the 2025 Nonprofit of the Year by the Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce.
For us, this recognition is about more than an award. It is a celebration of Waukee’s story, its people, and the community spirit that continues to make this city feel like home — even as it grows.
As was shared during the award presentation, organizations like ours exist “not by profit, but by purpose.” That purpose has always guided the work of the Waukee Area Historical Society: preserving, protecting, and sharing the history of Waukee for future generations.
Waukee has changed tremendously over the years. New neighborhoods, businesses, and families continue to shape our community in exciting ways. But while growth brings opportunity, it also makes preserving our roots even more important. Our mission is to ensure the stories, traditions, and legacy that built Waukee are never lost.
Through exhibits, educational programming, community events, and storytelling, we strive to connect generations and create meaningful experiences that remind us where we came from.
Whether it’s hosting Retro Game Nights and community BINGO, sharing stories from Waukee’s coal mining history, highlighting unforgettable moments like a thwarted bank robbery, or welcoming guests to our annual cemetery tours, we believe history should be engaging, accessible, and fun.
And of course, one of our favorite traditions each year is Wauktoberfest — a celebration that brings thousands of people into Waukee’s historic district to support local businesses, celebrate our heritage, and enjoy the sense of connection that makes this community special.
What we preserve is more than history.
We preserve identity.
We preserve connection.
We preserve the stories that remind people that Waukee is not just a place to live — it is a community.
We are deeply thankful to the Chamber, our volunteers, members, sponsors, community partners, and everyone who supports the Historical Society throughout the year. This recognition belongs to all of you as much as it belongs to us.
As Waukee continues to grow, we remain committed to protecting the stories of the past while helping strengthen the community for generations to come.
Thank you, Waukee, for allowing us to help preserve the heart of this incredible community.
