Looking Ahead Together: Highlights from LIVE UNITED 2026

Hundreds of central Iowans gathered for United Way of Central Iowa’s annual LIVE UNITED celebration, an event that reflected on a year of community impact while underscoring the challenges many families continue to face.

The organization released its 2026 Community Report during the event, offering an updated look at conditions across the region. The report found that 1 in 3 central Iowa households are unable to afford basic needs.

“At its core, this work is about people, the families working hard every day to stay afloat and build a better future,” said Mary Sellers, president of United Way of Central Iowa. “This report is a reminder that while we have made meaningful progress together, our work is far from finished.”

Key Insights from the 2026 Community Report
The 2026 Community Report highlights the interconnected challenges shaping daily life across the region, along with the coordinated efforts underway to address them:

• Essential Needs: 1 in 10 central Iowans experiences food insecurity, and more than 43% of renters are cost burdened. United Way and its partners are expanding access to food, stable housing, and pathways to financial stability.

• Economic Opportunity: Out of Iowa’s 20 most common jobs, eight pay less than $20 per hour, limiting families’ ability to get ahead. United Way is helping bridge that gap through workforce development and financial empowerment programs that increase earning potential and support long term security.

• Early Childhood Success: With 78% of central Iowa children under age six having all caregivers in the workforce, access to quality, affordable childcare is critical. United Way continues to invest in early learning initiatives to ensure children start school ready to succeed.

• Education Success: For many central Iowa students, the path after high school remains uncertain, with 1 in 5 graduates lacking a clear plan for what comes next. United Way is working alongside schools and community partners to expand mentorship, career exploration, and postsecondary planning so more students can move forward with confidence.

• Health & Well Being: Access to care continues to be a significant barrier, particularly for mental health. Nearly half of Iowa adults experiencing mental illness, along with more than half of youth, do not receive the care they need. United Way is partnering across sectors to improve access to services and support healthier outcomes for individuals and families.

Honoring Local Changemakers: LIVE UNITED Award Winners
A highlight of the event was the recognition of the 2026 LIVE UNITED Award winners, honoring individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional dedication to improving lives in central Iowa. This year’s honorees include:

• Spirit of Central Iowa Award: Holmes Murphy, recognized for their outstanding commitment to philanthropy and volunteerism in the community.

• LIVE UNITED Leader Awards: Recognize individuals for their exceptional efforts in giving, advocating, and volunteering to create lasting change in central Iowa.

  • Jamie Buelt, Oakridge Neighborhood

  • John Currier, F&G

  • Suzanne Heckenlaible, Delta Dental of Iowa

  • Mikki Stier, Childserve

  • Brandon Qualley, Sammons Financial Group 

• LIVE UNITED Champion Awards: Honor organizations of all sizes for their innovative and sustained dedication to United Way of Central Iowa’s mission and their remarkable impact on our community over the past year.

  • American Equity

  • Athene

  • Casey’s

  • CBRE

  • Corteva Agriscience

  • Drake University

  • F&G

  • Farm Bureau Financial Services

  • GuideOne and The Mutual Group

  • Hearst Corporation, including CDS Global and KCCI-TV

  • Lauridsen Group

  • Merchants Bonding Company

  • Principal Financial Group®

  • R&R Realty Group

  • Sammons Financial Group

  • Willis Automotive
    

A Call for Sustained Community Engagement
Sellers said the event serves as both a reflection point and a call to action.

“Real progress happens when a community comes together and stays engaged,” Sellers said. “Whether it is giving, advocating or volunteering, every action moves us closer to a future where every central Iowan has the opportunity to thrive.”

To explore the full 2026 Community Report and learn how to get involved, visit unitedwaydm.org.