Photo: City of Des Moines
(Iowa) -- Young women across Iowa can now apply to participate in a week-long camp where they'll be able to work side-by-side with female first responders.
The 2026 Iowa Hero Academy is now accepting applications from Iowa women ages 16-18. The camp is run by the Iowa Army National Guard as well as police and fire departments from around central Iowa. This year's camp will be held at Camp Dodge July 26th-31st. Hali VanVelzen, Des Moines Fire Department Medic says:
"By the end of the week, the girls are exhausted, but they're so happy, and it's neat to see their confidence change from day one to the end from where they started to seeing where they can go."
Camp counselors and current first responders will work with campers throughout the week to provide hands-on learning and give an idea of what it's like working as a police officer, firefighters, medic, or National Guard soldier. The deadline to apply is April 25th, and information on how to apply is available at the City of Des Moines website or by emailing heroacademy@dmgov.org.