Research shows that a person’s career progression can significantly impact their lifetime income and overall economic mobility. Experiences such as obtaining a first full-time job that offers opportunities for advancement, receiving job or skills training, and avoiding involuntary unemployment can impact an individual’s economic success.
On Monday, May 12th, 2025, UpLift, Project IOWA, United Way of Central Iowa, Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services, and St. Vincent de Paul hosted a Community Conversation about how the Central Iowa community is currently navigating the workforce landscape, the barriers individuals may face, and the solutions experts have found impactful.
Questions and Answers
Check back for an extended Q&A with the panelists.
Watch the recording of
Creating Stability and Opportunity in Iowa’s Workforce
Download the Event Resources
ALICE – Asset Limited Income Constrained and Employed
ALICE households earn above the federal poverty level but cannot afford the basic cost of living in their community. Despite struggling to make ends meet, ALICE households often do not qualify for public assistance.
Published by: United Way of Central Iowa
Iowa Workforce
Project Iowa created this informational document specifically for Creating Stability and Opportunity in Iowa’s Workforce. This handout defines commone workforce terms such as unemployment, underemployment, living wage, and more. Using the most recent data available, it examines Iowa’s largest industries, employers with current openings, underemployment reporting, and Iowa’s unemployment breakout.
Published by: Project Iowa
Project Iowa’s Cultivating Careers Program
When you sign up for Project IOWA’s Cultivating Careers program you will: receive one-on-one coaching, be given assistance finding employment, gain more confidence, have access to learn digital skills, build up your resume, and be provided wrap around support as needed.
Published by: Project Iowa
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