Join us for LIVE UNITED 2026 on April 7. 

Tickets Now on Sale

2026

LIVE UNITED Celebration

April 7, 2026
11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Luncheon
The Meadows Events Center at Prairie Meadows

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Celebrating Partnerships and Community

The 2026 LIVE UNITED Celebration will be held on April 7 at Prairie Meadows, where we will unveil the 2026 Community Report and honor this year’s LIVE UNITED Award winners.

Join us for United Way of Central Iowa's largest annual event, and help us recognize the individuals and organizations that have helped make a huge impact in our community.

We will look back at some of the progress made, share more about new initiatives, and highlight partnerships formed that best serve our community.

Program begins promptly at 11:30 a.m. Lunch will be served.

LIVE UNITED_2025

LIVE UNITED is sponsored by Prairie Meadows

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Start your LIVE UNITED experience by taking action.

Head out to Prairie Meadows a bit early to participate in a hands-on volunteer opportunity and assemble literacy kits that support early learning and reading readiness for children in our community. This engaging, team-based experience offers a meaningful way to give back while connecting with fellow community and business leaders before the luncheon begins.

Literacy Kit Build
10:30–11:15 AM

Tickets

Tickets will be on sale Jan. 9 - March 31, 2025

Single Seat: $40
Table (10 Seats): $360
 
Nonprofit Rate
Single Nonprofit Seat: $30 
Nonprofit Table (10 Seats): $270
Use promotion code NONPROFIT to receive nonprofit rate

New this year: Free Nonprofit Workshops at LIVE UNITED

Build Skills. Strengthen Organizations. Multiply Impact.

Kick off LIVE UNITED with a new morning experience designed for nonprofit professionals and community leaders. These interactive workshops mark the launch of United Way’s skills-based volunteering program, connecting nonprofit needs with the professional expertise that helps organizations grow stronger, smarter, and more sustainable.

Held prior to the LIVE UNITED luncheon, the morning sessions focus on practical skills that mirror the kinds of high-value functions often supported through skills-based volunteer engagement—data analysis, financial health, and strategic marketing. Participants will leave with actionable insights and new connections that extend well beyond the day.

Workshops are free, but registration is required and does not include admission to the luncheon.

Morning Schedule

8:30–9:00 AM
Check-in and Networking

9:00–9:10 AM
Welcome

9:10–9:50 AM
Using Data and AI to Ask the Right Questions
Taylor Petersen and Scott Anderson, Data for Good
Learn how nonprofits can use data and emerging AI tools to ask better questions, uncover insights, and make more informed decisions in service of community impact.

9:55–10:35 AM
Understanding Financial Health
Kristie Sams and Brian Aronson, Creative Planning
Explore key indicators of nonprofit financial health and strategies leaders can use to strengthen long-term stability and resilience.

10:40–11:20 AM
Modern Nonprofit Marketing: Strategy, Storytelling, and AI-Powered Tools
Chris Snider and Chris Porter, Drake University
Explore how today’s nonprofits can align strategy and storytelling using accessible digital tools. Learn how platforms like Canva and ChatGPT can support more effective communications, brand consistency, and audience engagement.

Tickets

Tickets will be on sale through March 27, 2026.

Single Seat: $40
Table (10 Seats): $360
 
Nonprofit Rate
Single Nonprofit Seat: $30 
Nonprofit Table (10 Seats): $270
Use promotion code NONPROFIT to receive nonprofit rate

Please note: Purchase of tickets or event registration and attendance constitutes consent for United Way of Central Iowa to take and use photographs of the event.

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Nominate a Difference-Maker

Nominate a Leader

The annual LIVE UNITED Awards recognize individuals and organizations in central Iowa who are making a huge impact, improving lives through their exceptional efforts giving, advocating, and volunteering for those in our community who need help.

The LIVE UNITED Leader awards honor individuals who have made an  exceptional impact in our community over the past year through their engagement with United Way of Central Iowa by giving, advocating, and volunteering to improve lives focusing on equity and the Five Elements of a Thriving Community.