Heartland AEA Staff – Let’s Live United! Consider Donating to United Way at the All-Staff Meeting

Central Iowa LIVES UNITED year-round, but United Way is extra special during the fall, when organizations like ours across the community run campaigns to raise money for the fight—the fight for the health, education and financial stability of all central Iowans.  


Heartland AEA and United Way are so grateful to you for the courage and compassion you’ve shown in the past toward this fight. You are truly an impact-maker for so many central Iowans in need! As a donor or volunteer, or as someone who wants to learn more about United Way’s work, you are joining the effort to ensure that everyone in Central Iowa gets a chance at a quality life.  


When you watch the videos below that show you two examples of how United Way has assisted those in need, consider filling out a pledge card at our All-Staff Meeting on Sept. 27. Note that pledges of at least $50 can be designated toward the county United Way or organization of your choosing. 

Missy’s Story

Missy has missed a lot of school. She has been raising her younger sister since the age of 11, because her parents must work long hours to provide for the family. Recently, she’s been caring for her young niece, too. Plus, the 17-year-old has juvenile arthritis and severe migraines, which cause debilitating pain. All these struggles meant Missy wasn’t on track to graduate high school, despite good grades. Flex Academy, funded by United Way of Central Iowa, has allowed the senior to work at her own pace—attending school when she can, working from home, and interacting personally with her teachers to keep up when she misses days. 

Rhonnie’s Story 
Last summer, Rhonnie was forced to choose between putting down a deposit on an apartment and paying for textbooks for nursing school. She chose the latter—and lived in her car for months, breaking out in hives with worry over how to pay for her last two semesters at Mercy College of Health Sciences. Fortunately, she found United Way’s Central Iowa HealthWorks, which not only funded the rest of her education but also provided the emotional support she needed to earn her degree and pass her boards. After years of struggling financially, this grandmother of nine can now support herself in an industry that desperately needs workers. 

Bizimana’s Story 
When war struck Burundi, Bizimana’s family lost the land they farmed as they fled the country, eventually landing in a Tanzanian refugee camp. There Bizimana cared for his two children, taught school, and grew vegetables on a tiny plot. In 2009, Bizimana and his children resettled in Des Moines as refugees. Through the United Way-funded LSI Global Greens program, he began to farm again. Today, Bizimana grows eggplant, broccoli, cabbage, and many other crops on two acres in Altoona. His family, which now includes his wife and three young kids, can eat healthy year-round, helping Bizimana manage his diabetes and save money on groceries. He also sells his produce at the Downtown Farmers’ Market to make additional income.