Willkie House, a Des Moines nonprofit that supports families and youth with after-school programming, has appointed Weslyn Caldwell as its new executive director. She succeeds Alex Rice, who recently became executive director of the Iowa Nonprofit Alliance. Caldwell joins Willkie House with over 15 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, strategic planning and community engagement. Willkie House has been a vital part of Des Moines’ Black community since its founding in 1917 when it hosted the War Recreation Board’s leisure programs for Black servicemen, a news release said. Today, approximately 90% of the youth served at Willkie House are students of color. Under Caldwell’s leadership, the organization aims to amplify its student programming and community engagement efforts and seek solutions to address the evolving needs of the community. “I am honored to join Willkie House and contribute to its longstanding tradition of building community,” Caldwell said in a statement. “I look forward to working with the dedicated staff, volunteers and partners to deepen our impact in Des Moines. Together, we will continue to build a brighter future for our families and youth.”