DES MOINES, Iowa — The city came together to celebrate improvements to the basketball court and a new mural in the Evelyn K. Davis Park.

The ceremony took place Saturday morning at the Evelyn K. Davis Park on Forest Avenue. After the dedication the court hosted the 5th annual LongShots Tournament, a 3×3 basketball tournament.

The B.Well Foundation puts on the event in hopes of bringing together families and students, spreading valuable lessons about becoming active citizens and shaping the community. So far, LongShots has invested 25,000 in Des Moines Public Schools basketball programs. Allowing every child a chance to partake in sports regardless of financial constraints.

The mural was designed by local artist Jill Wells and produced by Project Backboard. When putting the piece together Jill wanted the community’s input, so she put together a survey earlier this year. Months later, the piece is a combination of those responses and ideas.

The piece is called Culture Growth and represents culture, community, and growth. As one of the most used parks in the city, the piece also helps embody the mission to play hard, live well, and protect the earth.

Bravo Greater Des Moines, Friends of Des Moines Parks, and the Griswell Family helped make the project possible though donations and grant funding.

Learn more about the B.Well Foundation and their work within the community here.