United Way of Central Iowa

Yesterday, during our Advocacy Breakfast, United Way of Central Iowa proudly unveiled its 2025 Advocacy Agenda! This agenda highlights our key policy priorities for the upcoming legislative session, focusing on critical issues such as food insecurity, childcare, and affordable housing. Each year, we work closely with community leaders, policymakers, and dedicated advocates to identify and promote public policy solutions that drive positive, lasting impact. The 2025 Advocacy Agenda provides a clear roadmap to improve access to essential needs, support early childhood success, and foster economic and social well-being across central Iowa. A special thank you to our outstanding panelists for leading the discussion at yesterday’s event: Joe Murphy — UWCI Vice Chair, Advocacy | Executive Director, Iowa Business Council Janice Lane-Schroeder — UWCI Board Member | CEO, Children & Families of Iowa Deann Cook — President & CEO, Iowa Women’s Foundation Explore the 2025 Advocacy Agenda and sign up for updates: https://lnkd.in/gnBrxuPq #AdvocacyAgenda #UnitedWay #PolicySolutions #CommunityImpact

We’re grateful to EquiTrust Life Insurance Company for their partnership in assembling literacy kits for local children! These kits are helping preschool and elementary school students improve their reading skills and engage in fun, educational activities. Thank you to EquiTrust and their amazing employees for making a difference in our community. Together, we’re building stronger futures! #CommunityImpact #EducationMatters

Did you know? Programs like Book Buddy are helping improve literacy in Iowa schools! Early reading skills are the foundation for lifelong success, and initiatives like this are making a difference in young lives across our community. Together, we can support education and ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive. #LiteracyMatters #BuildingBrighterFutures #UnitedWay Check out how the Book Buddy Program is impacting our community: https://lnkd.in/gYqu-Ki3

Today is #GivingTuesday! 💙 Join us in making a lasting impact in Central Iowa. Your support helps ensure families have access to nutritious food, youth are empowered to reach their full potential, and every person has the tools to build a healthier, more secure future. Make a difference: https://lnkd.in/gm7QyVtw #UnitedToThrive #GivingTuesday #MakeAnImpact

Tomorrow is #GivingTuesday! Join us in making a lasting impact in Central Iowa. Your support helps ensure families have access to nutritious food, youth are empowered to reach their full potential, and every person has the tools to build a healthier, more secure future. Join us in making a difference today! 💙 https://lnkd.in/gC_sfKcR #UnitedToThrive #GivingTuesday #MakeAnImpact

Drake University kicked off their United Way campaign with a fantastic food drive in support of Des Moines Public Schools. Five local schools were in attendance to receive food donations, helping ensure students have access to the resources they need. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event a success and for supporting our community! #HiGriff #DrakeUniversity #CommunityImpact #FoodDrive

🧡 It’s #AntiBullyingWeek, and at United Way of Central Iowa, we’re standing together with our incredible partners to build a community of kindness, inclusion, and resilience. Bullying can impact people of all ages, and every person deserves to feel safe and supported. This week, we’re proud to spotlight the organizations that work every day to uplift our community’s health and well-being. Let’s make a difference together! A special thank you to our amazing partners who help create safe, supportive environments across Central Iowa: B.WELL Foundation Iowa Safe Schools Urban Dreams ArtForce Iowa Young Women's Resource Center FOUNDATION FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES OF IOWA Can Play Monsoon Asians & Pacific Islanders in Solidarity Follow along as we feature their work throughout the week! #StandUpWithUnitedWay #EndBullying #UnitedToThrive #UnitedForWellbeing

Become a Book Buddy! 📚 With just 30 minutes a week, you can make a difference in a preschooler’s world. By reading together, you’re not only sharing stories but building the foundation for their future. These moments create memories and skills that last forever. Be a part of their journey! Sign up today to be a Book Buddy and bring the joy of reading into a child’s life: https://hubs.ly/Q02XTWG60... #BookBuddy #ReadToSucceed #BooksBuildBigDreams #Volunteer

Help bring joy to 42 families in our community this holiday season by supporting United Way of Central Iowa’s HOPE for the Holidays! Through this heartfelt initiative, your donation of essential household items can make a meaningful difference for families working towards a brighter future. Every contribution supports our HOPE for Stable Families program, empowering families to set goals, overcome challenges, and access the resources needed for lasting stability. Make an impact this season! Click below to see the list of needed items and help spread some holiday cheer: https://hubs.ly/Q02XLS3M0 #GiveForGood #HOPEForTheHolidays #HolidayGiving

Happy Veterans Day! Today, we honor the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of our veterans. At United Way of Central Iowa, we are deeply grateful for veterans who have given so much to our community and country. Their contributions and commitment inspire us every day. Thank you to all veterans for your selflessness and service. We are united in our gratitude and commitment to making a difference in the lives of those who have served. #VeteransDay #UnitedWayofCentralIowa #HonoringOurHeroes