Lifting Up Futures Partners with Iowa Homeless Youth Centers

Lifting Up Futures (LUF) has teamed up with YSS and Iowa Homeless Youth Centers (IHYC) in Des Moines to make a difference by donating to youth – two feet at a time.

Ahmed Musa, founder of Lifting Up Futures, started the community organization in 2020. Originally named Laced Up Family, it started out by donating pairs of shoes to different homeless shelters throughout the Des Moines area, in one year donating around 8,000 to 10,000 pairs. This year the organization rebranded to Lifting Up Futures and continues to advocate and donate to the youth in Des Moines.

“When you create something that uplifts your community and fuels your passion, life transforms into an exciting adventure, filled with endless possibilities.” Musa said.

Lifting Up Futures sock design.

The community organization now sells socks, which are the number one requested item for homeless shelters. For each pair of socks sold, Lifting Up Futures will send another pair to a youth in need at IHYC.

“I learned that the most requested item in shelters is socks, and no one wants used socks,” Musa said. “We figured instead of donating socks, why don’t we just make our own sock that is cool and stylish and cater to our youth.

Musa is only 24 years old and was inspired to start LUF while doing community work.

“My favorite part is the impact at the end that comes back full circle. Of course, in the moment it’s fun, but being able to see the longevity that it brings, that is really the best part,” Musa said.

Earlier this month, Musa took a tour of IHYC with Gabe Tena, Community Engagement Coordinator. The tour included the emergency beds, the clothes pantry in the basement, and the kitchen as well as impactful discussions about how Lifting Up Futures and IHYC can team up to make a difference for homeless youth in Des Moines.

“I learned that they are needing more volunteers,” Ahmed said. “So just trying to figure out how I can help spread the word so that people can come in and put in some time to help YSS and IHYC.”

The socks are available for a limited time with donations going to IHYC in Des Moines. Buy a pair at liftingupfutures.org.

“YSS greatly appreciates our new partnership with Lifting Up Futures,” Behrends said. “Ahmed’s creative idea of designing a sock for purchase with proceeds going back to Iowa Homeless Youth Centers is awesome. Purchase a pair of socks today to help eliminate homelessness among youth ages 16-24 in Central Iowa.”