At Kemin, social responsibility is rooted in our history and carried forward through purposeful action. Guided by the values of our founders, R.W. and Mary Nelson, whose deep sense of social responsibility laid the foundation for Kemin’s culture of care, we are committed to strengthening communities, advancing education and science, supporting food security and housing, and creating lasting social impact—locally and globally. Through strategic philanthropy, trusted partnerships, and employee-driven engagement, we work to improve quality of life and build a better future for generations to come.
Above: R.W. and Mary Nelson visit the Kemin Hope Primary School. Following the 2008 earthquake in China’s Sichuan Province, Kemin employees worldwide raised funds to rebuild a primary school in Qin Chang village. Opened a decade ago, the Kemin Hope Primary School now serves 300 students with modern facilities and continues to support the school by awarding annual scholarships -- investing in their education and brighter futures.
Our Focus Areas
Our Approach
Key Global Partnerships
Our Impact
Take a closer look at the organizations that Kemin's philantrophy efforts support.
Kemin partners with the World Food Programme (WFP) to enhance global food safety and quality, reaching over 25 million people annually. As a long-time corporate partner, we provide expertise in food systems and lab analysis to support WFP’s mission to achieve Zero Hunger.
For over 20 years, Kemin employees have supported Habitat for Humanity’s mission to provide safe, affordable housing worldwide. From building homes in Des Moines to leading relief efforts in Nepal and Brazil, our teams combine hands-on service and financial support to strengthen communities and bring hope to families in need.
Since 1999, Kemin’s annual Holiday Charity Auction has raised over $1 million to support children served by Ellipsis in Des Moines. What began with one employee’s visit to a local shelter has grown into a cherished tradition—providing holiday gifts and funding essential services for youth in need. It’s a powerful reflection of Kemin’s commitment to community care and compassion in action.
For nearly 30 years, Kemin has partnered with The World Food Prize to support global efforts to improve food quality, quantity, and accessibility. Founded by Nobel Peace Prize winner Norman Borlaug, the organization honors leaders in food security—aligning with Kemin’s mission to help alleviate hunger and address global food challenges.
For inquiries regarding sponsorships or community engagement opportunities,
fill out the form below.
Kemin focuses its corporate giving strategy on four pillars, which includes science and general education, affordable housing & food security, sustainability, and the creation of vibrant communities.
Kemin's donates to many non-profits, and our key global partnerships include the World Food Programme, Habitat for Humanity, the World Food Prize, and Ellipsis.
Kemin supports nonprofit organizations whose missions align with our social responsibility focus areas and values, including education, food security, sustainability, affordable housing, and vibrant communities. We prioritize organizations that create meaningful, long‑term impact in the communities where we live and work. To be considered for support, please fill out the form above, and a member of our Corporate Affairs team will be in touch.
Kemin employees are encouraged to actively support our social responsibility initiatives in meaningful ways. Employees participate in our annual Holiday Charity Auction benefiting Ellipsis, volunteer their time through company‑supported volunteer hours, and take part in global initiatives such as Earth Day and World Cleanup Day. These opportunities reflect our commitment to employee‑driven engagement and making a positive impact in the communities where we live and work.