about the event

INSPIRED is Chrysalis Foundation’s signature annual luncheon—a gathering that celebrates leadership, courage, and collective action in support of women and girls in Greater Des Moines.

This year, we welcome Lynsey Addario, an American photojournalist who has been covering conflict, humanitarian crises, and women’s issues in the Middle East and Africa for The Atlantic, The New York Times, and National Geographic for more than two decades. In 2015, Addario wrote a New York Times best-selling memoir,
“It’s What I Do,” chronicling her personal and professional life as a photojournalist coming of age in the post-9/11 world. In 2018, she released her first solo collection of photography, “Of Love and War,” published by Penguin Press. Addario’s life was recently the subject of Love+War, a feature film by Oscar-winning directors Jimmy Chin and Chai Vasarhelyi.

Join us for an energizing afternoon of connection, conversation, and inspiration as we work to ensure every girl and woman in our community has the tools, support, and opportunity to thrive.

event details

• DATE: Monday, November 2, 2026
• TIME: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
• LOCATION: Community Choice Convention Center
• TICKETS: Open July 1, 2026
• INCLUDES: Catered lunch and photo opportunity with Lynsey Addario

why attend

• Hear Lynsey Addario's powerful keynote message
• Support Chrysalis Foundation’s mission to advance opportunities for girls and women
• Connect with local leaders, changemakers, and advocates

corporate sponsorship 

INSPIRED is the signature fundraiser for the Chrysalis Foundation. For over 20 years, 100% of event proceeds have brought after-school and mentoring programs, safety and stabilization services, education, and economic empowerment to thousands of girls and women in Greater Des Moines. 

Each year, more than 500 leaders from the corporate, public, and private sectors gather alongside donors, volunteers, and friends of Chrysalis for this signature event. 

Sponsorship offers prominent, high-visibility recognition among an influential audience, positioning your organization alongside a powerful legacy of leadership and community impact. 

Learn more about sponsoring INSPIRED 2026 here. 

learn more about lynsey addario

 Visit Lynsey Addario's website here.