United Way of Central Iowa Introduces the 2025 Advocacy Agenda: A Vision for a Thriving Community

United Way of Central Iowa recently unveiled its 2025 Advocacy Agenda at the annual Advocacy Breakfast, an event that brought together policymakers, community leaders, and the public to discuss the critical issues affecting our communities. The agenda focuses on the key priorities that shape a thriving community: Essential Needs, Early Childhood Success, Education Success, Economic Opportunity, and Health & Well-Being.

Addressing the Challenges Facing Central Iowans
During the breakfast, discussions centered on some of the most pressing challenges faced by families and individuals across Iowa. From childcare workforce shortages to affordable housing and food security, these issues require bold policy solutions and strategic investments. United Way is leading the charge by advocating for policies that address these needs and create a lasting, positive impact for all.

Innovative Solutions to Childcare Workforce Shortages
Access to affordable, quality childcare is essential for a thriving workforce. United Way is working to stabilize and grow Iowa’s childcare sector through state-level reforms and local strategies aimed at addressing workforce shortages and expanding access to care.

Key solutions include:
• More flexibility in Child Care Assistance (CCA) weekly work and education requirements
• State income tax exemptions for childcare providers
• Expansion of pilot programs for childcare provider access to the CCA program
• Increased paid absence coverage under the CCA program
• Reducing property tax burdens for childcare centers
• Innovative strategies to increase the capacity for high-quality childcare

Dave Stone, United Way’s Advocacy Officer, highlighted the importance of affordable childcare, saying, “Access to quality, affordable childcare is essential for building a thriving workforce and supporting Iowa families. By championing innovative policies, we can address the childcare workforce crisis and strengthen our communities.”

Housing Stability and Economic Opportunity for All
United Way’s efforts extend to addressing housing stability and creating economic opportunities for everyone. The OpportUNITY Affordable Housing Workgroup is advocating for eviction expungement pathways, allowing families to move beyond barriers created by past eviction records. Additionally, partnerships with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services are focused on transitioning unhoused individuals into permanent housing.

Transportation is also a key focus. United Way is pushing for sustainable funding for public transit systems that improve access to housing, jobs, and essential services across central Iowa.

“Stable housing and reliable transportation are fundamental to economic opportunity,” said Joe Murphy, Chair of United Way’s Public Policy Cabinet. “Through collective efforts, we are addressing these systemic barriers and working to create a thriving community where all Iowans have access to the resources needed for a successful life.”

Fighting Hunger and Strengthening Food Security
United Way’s commitment to food security in Iowa is helping strengthen local food systems. Advocating for programs like Double Up Food Bucks, which allows families using SNAP benefits to access fresh produce while supporting local farmers and grocery stores, is one way United Way is ensuring nutritious food is available to our neighbors who need it most.

“Nutritious food is a basic need that emphasizes health and well-being,” said Stone. “By advocating for sustainable funding, we’re not only supporting families but also strengthening Iowa’s agricultural economy.”

A Holistic Approach to Advocacy
United Way’s 2025 Advocacy Agenda is more than just a collection of policy solutions—it represents a holistic, cross-sector approach to creating a thriving community for all. The agenda includes initiatives focused on:

• • Education Success: Expanding opportunities for work-based learning and English-language learners
    
    
  • Economic Opportunity: Promoting equitable broadband access and utilizing TANF funds for workforce strategies
    
    
  • Health & Well-Being: Leading efforts to raise awareness for children’s mental health and oral health initiatives