Fostering an equitable, engaged, and empowered community
On this episode of Community Difference Makers, Emily Abbas and Mary Sellers of United Way of Central Iowa recap the conversations we had throughout the season on food insecurity, housing, childcare, and safe and thriving youth. Listen everywhere podcasts are found or watch here: https://www.bankerstrust.com/about/community-difference-makers/
Everyone has a why. đź’™
Over the coming weeks, you’ll hear from leaders across our community as they share why they support United Way of Central Iowa, what gives them hope for our future and why working together matters.
Join us each Wednesday for and hear the stories behind the people helping create a stronger central Iowa.
06/02/2026
Just 30 minutes a week can make a lasting impact. đź“šđź’™
Book Buddy volunteers help young students build confidence, strengthen literacy skills and discover the joy of reading. Through consistent encouragement and connection, they're helping create brighter futures, one story at a time.
Ready to make a difference for a local student? Become a Book Buddy volunteer today.
👉 https://www.unitedwaydm.org/get-involved/volunteer
05/26/2026
From interest to impact!
Earlier this year, Abel attended United Way of Central Iowa’s Apprenticeship Readiness Program to explore opportunities in the skilled trades. Today, he officially signed at the Laborers' Local 177 Hall as a 1st Year Apprentice Laborer with Neumann Brothers and starts Monday!
Programs like this are about more than career exploration. Through partnerships with organizations like LIUNA Local 177 and local employers, they create pathways, build confidence and connect young adults to real opportunities that can change lives.
Congrats, Abel! We’re excited to see what’s ahead
05/20/2026
Tone Roddy, Project Manager for Safe & Thriving Youth at United Way of Central Iowa, will be joining local leaders for an upcoming conversation focused on youth violence prevention and creating safer, more connected communities for young people across Greater Des Moines.
The panel will bring together leaders from across the community to discuss collaboration, prevention and the importance of investing in youth and families.
We’re grateful for Tone’s leadership and continued commitment to helping young people thrive across Central Iowa.
Register today: https://www.desmoinesfoundation.org/events/donorconnect-protecting-potential-keeping-youth-safe-and-thriving?event=4dc68bd2-9d10-4ab8-bec1-3b6277c5e7c3
05/20/2026
The impact of after school support goes far beyond the classroom. đź’™
For many students, these programs provide more than homework help, they create consistency, connection and a safe space to grow long after the school bell rings. Through partnerships with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa, Icoach- Iowa Congolese Organization and Center for Healing and Perry PACES Before & After School Learning Center, young people across Central Iowa are gaining the support they need to thrive both in and out of school.
Read more about how these programs are making a difference in the lives of local youth: https://www.unitedwaydm.org/news/where-consistency-and-connection-continue-after-the-bell
05/20/2026
Joseph Jones, Director of Community Impact at United Way of Central Iowa, was recently featured in the Des Moines Business Record “A Closer Look” series.
In the feature, Joseph shares more about his leadership journey, passion for community impact and the work that continues to help strengthen opportunities for families across Central Iowa.
We’re proud to see Joseph recognized and grateful for the leadership and perspective he brings to our community every day. 💙
Meet Joseph Jones, the chief community impact officer at United Way of Central Iowa: https://www.businessrecord.com/a-closer-look-joseph-jones-united-way/
Congratulations to our own Rachelle Talbott on graduating from the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute Class of 2026! đź‘Ź
Over the past nine months, Rachelle has continued to lead with curiosity, collaboration and a deep commitment to strengthening our community through her work as a Research Associate at United Way of Central Iowa.
We’re proud to celebrate this accomplishment and excited to see the impact she’ll continue to make across Central Iowa. 💙
Thank you to Athene for being a generous sponsor and hosting our Stuff the Bus community drop-off event!
Your partnership helps us provide books that spark imagination, build literacy, and support early childhood success for kids across central Iowa.
Together, we’re making sure more children have the tools they need to thrive.
05/18/2026
United Way of Central Iowa is proud to be a 2026 Principal Charity Classic Tournament Charity Partner, supporting Iowa’s only PGA TOUR Champions event dedicated to helping youth succeed. ⛳️
Through this partnership, we’re working alongside community partners to expand opportunities for children and families across Central Iowa. The Principal Charity Classic continues to raise critical awareness and resources for youth-focused solutions while showing what’s possible when a community comes together.
From volunteer engagement to storytelling and supporter outreach, we’re honored to be part of an event that drives meaningful, community-centered impact.
Want to get closer to the action at the Principal Charity Classic?
Volunteer registration is open for June 2026! Join an incredible team, help bring one of Des Moines’ favorite events to life, and enjoy a front-row seat to all the action at Wakonda Club.
Whether you want to spend the week with friends, support a great cause, or be part of tournament week, there is a volunteer role for you.
Register today and be part of the action!
| Monday | 8am - 5pm |
| Tuesday | 8am - 5pm |
| Wednesday | 8am - 5pm |
| Thursday | 8am - 5pm |
| Friday | 8am - 5pm |