Creating Conditions Where Students Can Focus on Learning

Safety is essential to learning. Students who experience trauma or unsafe environments face additional barriers to engagement and success.

United Way of Central Iowa funded partners, including Forest Avenue Outreach, Mothers Against Violence, and Sarge’s WestSide Boxing Club, promote safety, connection, and positive alternatives for youth across the community.

“Students cannot focus on learning if they don’t feel safe,” said Kate Bennett Community Impact Officer and Safe and Thriving Youth initiative leader at United Way of Central Iowa. “Safety is foundational to education success.”

Kervin Veasley (Sarge), Director of Sarge's Westside Boxing, added, “When young people have safe spaces and trusted adults, they’re better able to show up and stay engaged.”

United Way invests in youth violence prevention and safety because education success depends on environments where students can focus on growth rather than survival.