Our Stories
Hear how Project IOWA has led people on all walks of life through self-exploration to find (or rediscover) their purpose and towards discovering fulfilling, stable careers.
Erin
Current Employment Drake University Why did you participate in Project IOWA’s Cultivating Careers program? I had been unemployed for 4.5 months after a heartbreaking layoff. My unemployment had ended. I was looking for a small group and/or 1:1 support for specific aspects of gaining a new career. Describe your
Erin's StoryStories of us
Read stories of resilience, inspiration, and determination.
Rachel Manna
Life felt like an uphill battle. As an Army veteran and a mother of two, I wanted to provide stability and a bright future for my family. But at the time, I was stuck in a dead-end fast-food job, financially struggling, and burdened by the
Rachel's Story
Jelena Babic Barnes
When I started Cultivating Careers with Project IOWA, it was very intentional from the staff perspective, from the program perspective. I had my one-on-one time with my mentor and it was like, ‘What is the job description? Let’s look at your resume and craft it.
Jelena's Story
Abdinor Hussein
The YouthWorks program has taught me many things, from time management, communication and organization to writing my first resume. I have learned what it’s like to work in a professional environment and how to interact with adults.Abdinor Hussein
Abdinor's Story
A Journey of Resilience and Renewal Clifford Salmond is one of the first participants to go through Project IOWA’s programming. He graduated in February 2013, and has had many successes along the way. Clifford, a veteran of the criminal justice system who was incarcerated on drug-related charges. After his… Read More
Selma
Selma Vital is a graduate from Project IOWA’s Cultivating Careers program. She is currently employed at The University of Iowa as an Academic Advisor. Tell us a little bit about yourself. I am a Brazilian living outside of my country since 1998, and besides the United States
Selma's Story
Brooklyn Andrews
My name is Brooklyn Andrews, I am 17-years-old, and recently graduated from East High School. I am the Social Media and Marketing intern for Project IOWA. When I first found out about the YouthWorks program I was very excited to learn about how to promote an
Brooklyn's Story
Lisa Knopf
Lisa's Story