Fostering an Equitable, Engaged + Empowered Community Through United to Thrive
Mary Sellers, president of United Way of Central Iowa, shares about United to Thrive, United Way of Central Iowa’s strategic focus to foster an equitable, engaged and empowered community. Focus is placed on five areas, including:
Strategies for Education Success + Economic Opportunity
For some time, Sellers said that a high school diploma was enough; but career readiness is achieved now through trades, community college, four-year college and certificate programs. Through United to Thrive, students learn a plan for their future, past graduation. In partnering with local organizations, United Way has strengthened pathways for readying students for the workforce. Sellers asked local leadership who might be listening to get involved with United Way if there’s something that resonates and aligns with what they’re passionate about. You can offer internships, as well as connect to create Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs. She said that the larger community issue is figuring out what we can all do to make sure everyone in Greater Des Moines (DSM) has the opportunity to move forward.
Economic Opportunity
Sellers said that economic mobility is essential. The goal should be to increase workforce training and career-based training in order to prepare students for the future world of work in DSM and the state. We’re only going to be successful when the least among us is successful.
In the future, Sellers said that United to Thrive’s success will be determined by the corporate, nonprofit and public sectors coming together to tackle community projects.
The Future Ready DSM podcast was previously produced by the Greater Des Moines Partnership. To learn more about talent attraction and retention in DSM, check out our Talent Development Resources or visit the Do Something Greater website.