Tara has graduated from United Way of Central Iowa's Bridges to Success initiative and is on a path to becoming a nurse through Central Iowa HealthWorks.
After losing everything to Hurricane Maria, Soleil and Juan moved from Puerto Rico to Des Moines, where a friend introduced them to MyFreeTaxes—a free online filing service provided by United Way and H&R Block.
Bad relationships and drugs ruined her life. United Way, a female friend and mentor, and her own determination saved it. Her kids’ smiles are the reward.
When she was homeless in Redhead Park on the East Side, living out of a suitcase, sleeping on a bench, and quitting crystal meth cold turkey—Michelle Jackson wouldn't have believed she would soon be a boss.
At age 30, Mikeesha came to a crossroads. A single mother of two, she was unemployed and struggling financially—with no clear plan for where to go next.
17 years after dropping out of high school to care for his newborn daughter, Aaron achieved his high school equivalency diploma and hopes to open a business.
Through the Summer Youth Employment Program, Gil Gonzalez-Jacob gained on-the-job knowledge and leadership skills. Now he wants to become an entrepreneur.
Struggling with three children and unstable employment, Shaneice was evicted. With United Way's help, she found a path to safety and stability for her family.
