DES MOINES, Iowa — A report from nonprofit Heartland Forward shows Des Moines has one of the fastest-growing immigrant populations across the country, with a growth of more than 40% over a decade.

The number of employment opportunities found in Iowa is highlighted as one reason people are attracted to the Central Iowa city.

"There's not a lot of people here compared to other cities where refugees are being resettled," explained Boaz Nkingi, who was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Nkingi has lived in Des Moines for the last 12 years.

He says Des Moines has led him to a number of successful achievements, such as starting his organization ICOACH. Most recently, the organization has helped students succeed with virtual learning during the pandemic.

The May report from Heartland Forward shows Refugee and Immigrant businesses contribute $4.1 billion to Iowa's economy each year. Furthermore, the report emphasizes

"Maybe 20-25 years ago, there were many efforts for companies to bring people from the South--from Texas, especially," recalled Manny Galvez, a board member with organization Latinx Immigrants of Iowa.

Manny Galvez and Jose Alvarado, the director of the organization, work with hundreds in the community through Latinx Immigrants of Iowa.

"They're here because of the meat plants and agriculture places," Alvarado said.

However, both Galvez and Alvarado note packing is only part of what has people moving to Central Iowa.

"I moved to Iowa City because I was working for the university," Galvez said.

People are also choosing to learn and excel in their education, like Manny Galvez who has his master's degree and continues to stress the importance for younger generations to take advantage of education in Iowa.

Iowa's cost of living is another aspect attracting people from other countries to Des Moines, but one deemed most important is safety.

"I was able to walk on the street or in the night without any trouble," recalled Alvarado, remembering what it was like when he first moved to Des Moines. "I felt comfortable."

Nkingi says another reason he's stayed and plans to start a family in Des Moines is because of the community.

"There are nice people. People like to help," said Nkingi. "That has changed my mind and I want to stay here and live here."