Fall Family Festival
· 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Camp Dodge - Pool Pavilion, 7105 NW 70th Ave, Johnston, IA
Space is limited—register early so your family is covered.
Events For Guard Families
Get first dibs on camps, celebrations, and workshops built for Iowa’s military-connected youth.
Registration alerts
Upcoming events
We keep this list updated weekly. Bookmark it, share it with your unit, and reach out if you need help signing up.
Cookies with Santa
· 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Camp Dodge - Dodge House, 7105 NW 70th Ave, Johnston, IA
Space is limited—register early so your family is covered.
Military Family Event: Davenport
· 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
The Fun Station, 400 S 14th Ave, Eldridge, IA 52748
Space is limited—register early so your family is covered.
Military Family Event: Cedar Rapids
· 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
The Fun Station, 200 Collins Rd NE, Cedar Rapids, IA
Space is limited—register early so your family is covered.
Military Family Event: Sioux City
· 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Drop Zone, 3840 Stadium Dr, Sioux City, IA 51106
Space is limited—register early so your family is covered.
Military Family Ball
· 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Camp Dodge - Pool Pavilion, 7105 NW 70th Ave, Johnston, IA
Space is limited—register early so your family is covered.
Military Family Event: Des Moines
· 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Emerge Academy, 2100 SE Gateway Dr Suite 200, Grimes, IA
Space is limited—register early so your family is covered.
Programs
Experiences Guard-connected youth ask for again and again
Adventure kits, camps, and leadership tracks keep Guard-connected youth plugged in all year long. These highlights give partners and caregivers a quick look at what sets Iowa CYP apart.
Program Series
Adventure Kits
Best for: Ages 6-14 military-connected youth
Adventure Kits bring Guard families together with seasonal, hands-on projects that spark curiosity and connection. Each kit includes STEM challenges, health tips, and guided videos families can open anytime, anywhere.
“Such great family fun! Events are tailored so well for kids to enjoy and parents to participate alongside them.” — Guard Parent, 5/23/2023
Camp
Summer Camp
Best for: Middle and high school military youth
Summer Camp is back this summer with a week of high-energy adventure, Guard mentors, and late-night cabin laughs. Exact dates drop soon—sign up for camp alerts and we’ll email you as soon as registration opens.
“This camp and staff were able to put a light back into my daughter’s eyes… The week was transformative in so many ways.” — Guard Parent, 7/13/2021
Campaign
Month of the Military Child
Best for: Military kids, families, and educators
Each April, the Guard family unites to honor the strength and sacrifice of military children. Iowa classrooms receive celebration kits—including Purple Up! wristbands—so kids feel seen and proud alongside their peers.
“Great way to honor and value military kids!” — Parent, 5/23/2023
Program
Military Family Events
Best for: Military families statewide
Military Family Events connect Guard households across Iowa through regional gatherings and celebrations. These shared moments strengthen community, belonging, and Guard family pride all year long.
“We have so much fun! Super organized events.” — Guard Family, 10/24/2021
Workshop
Yellow Ribbon
Best for: Youth experiencing deployment
Yellow Ribbon youth workshops help kids and teens navigate deployment with confidence. They connect with peers who understand, learn practical tools, and find strength in shared experience and support.
“It means a lot just to have something to do when their dad is deployed… We enjoyed every minute of it.” — Military Spouse, 2/17/2024
Mentorship
State Teen Panel
Best for: Military-connected teens ages 13-17
The State Teen Panel empowers Guard youth to lead, serve, and represent their peers. Members design service projects, build leadership skills, and strengthen the community they love.
“We always have so much fun and get closer every time. I love everything about the STP—but the people are my favorite part.” — STP Youth, 3/11/2024