UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL IOWA BLOG

United Way of Central Iowa released its 2024 Advocacy Agenda at their Advocacy Update Breakfast held on Thursday, December 14 for policy makers, government officials, and members of the community.

The Advocacy Update featured presentations on key, statewide issues impacting United Way’s 5 Elements of a Thriving Community – specifically childcare workforce; safe, healthy, and affordable housing; and food security. 

United Way of Central Iowa’s holiday wish: To share more about the tale of two holidays for the kids who live here. One where the season is full of joy and excitement – with fun traditions of playing games, eating warm healthy meals, unwrapping special gifts, and being surrounded by a loving family who read books with them. The other where sitting by a warm fire in a safe home with parents who are able to buy toys and books is only a dream.

United Way of Central Iowa announced on Wednesday, October 4 that Jim Brannen and Maria Volante were selected as this year’s co-recipients of the prestigious Tocqueville Society Award.

On September 12, over 500 dedicated volunteers offered their time and talents to contribute to 20 different organizations, successfully completing nearly 60 impactful projects throughout the community.

The members of Education Leadership Initiative (ELI), a United Way of Central Iowa donor affinity group focused on Education Success efforts, understand the immense value of central Iowa students having smooth transition from middle to high school so they can stay on a path to graduation and gain essential buildings block for a better life. 

The members of Education Leadership Initiative (ELI), a United Way of Central Iowa donor affinity group focused on Education Success efforts, understand the immense value of mentorship in the lives of young individuals. 

Over 30,000 books to be donated to central Iowa children and students from United Way of Central Iowa's annual Stuff the Bus book drive.

United Way of Central Iowa has been awarded the Maddie’s Circle grant to further support United Way’s work in fostering a thriving community.

At this year's LIVE UNITED celebration luncheon, United Way of Central Iowa unveiled its 2023 Community Report and recognized four organizations and three individuals with its annual LIVE UNITED Awards. Athene was awarded the 2023 Spirit of Central Iowa Award for the third consecutive year and fifth time overall. 

During the event, United Way of Central Iowa's president, Mary Sellers, called attention to the critical issues our community is currently experiencing, and reminded attendees of how, in partnership with many in the community, United Way is navigating through these issues.

“We focus on not only the Five Elements of a Thriving Community with Equity at the center, but on how, like a puzzle, each piece is interconnected,” said Sellers. “If we can allow a working parent access to quality, affordable childcare, it influences their ability to have a job where they can earn a living wage, which in turn impacts their families access to quality healthcare, their ability to attain safe, affordable housing, and impacts their children’s success in school. It is all connected, and when we come together, in a UNITED WAY, we can make real, measurable impact throughout central Iowa.” 

John Soener, United Way of Central Iowa Investment Manager, shares his thoughts on universal basic income, the benefits, and how United Way is investing in a pilot program impacting our community.