A Storytelling Partnership Since 2020: Our Work with HBA of Greater Des Moines
At Akili Design & Marketing Services, storytelling isn’t just part of what we do—it’s at the heart of how we help brands and organizations connect with their audiences. Since 2020, we’ve had the privilege of partnering with the Home Builders Association of Greater Des Moines (DSM HBA) to create meaningful content for their magazines and online platforms.
Over the years, we’ve written articles that highlight innovation, celebrate people making an impact and share ideas that shape how we live and build in Central Iowa. This collaboration has been more than a project, it’s been a true partnership built on passion for content creation, interviewing incredible individuals and telling stories that matter.
Highlights from Our Partnership:
- There’s No Place Like Home: Aging in Place
Exploring how homeowners can thoughtfully adapt spaces to support comfort and independence as they age—showcasing the heart and foresight behind great home design. - Preserving Natural Elements
A feature on balancing development with environmental stewardship, showing how the industry is taking steps to protect and highlight natural surroundings. - Putting a Positive Light on Development
Shedding light on how thoughtful planning and design can create vibrant, sustainable communities while addressing growth challenges. - Making Your New House a Home
Focused on the excitement of new homeowners and how the building industry helps people transform a house into a truly personalized, welcoming home. - Celebrating Women in Building
A spotlight on women leading, innovating, and breaking barriers in construction and homebuilding—a story of resilience and leadership. - Celebrating 5 Years: Build My Future
Marking a milestone for a program inspiring high school students to explore careers in construction, building the next generation of industry leaders. - Sustainability in Des Moines
Highlighting the industry’s shift toward greener practices and innovations that make our community more environmentally conscious. - Focus on Your Wellbeing: Create a Harmoni Room
Exploring how thoughtful design can promote balance and relaxation in the home, blending aesthetics with personal wellness.
What DSM HBA Says About Working With Us
The DSM HBA shared this review on Google:
“Leng has been writing our magazine stories for multiple years now. She is great to work with! We can give her an idea of what we want an article or story to be, give a word count and a few people she can talk with. After that I don’t have to worry about a thing. She comes back with a wonderful story every time!”
Hearing feedback like this means the world to us. It reflects the trust, collaboration and shared passion that has made this partnership so successful.
More Than Writing – A True Partnership
Every article has been an opportunity to connect with local builders, homeowners and community leaders — hearing their stories and translating them into content that informs, inspires and connects readers.
Since 2020, this partnership with HBA of Greater Des Moines has been about more than delivering articles. It’s about sharing voices that might otherwise go unheard, shining light on ideas that move the industry forward and celebrating the people who make a difference in how we build and live.
We’re grateful for the trust and collaboration over the years and excited to continue this journey, telling stories that build stronger connections in our community.