Engage With Us
Growth Gala
More than just a fundraiser, the Growth Gala is a celebration of transformation, community, and connection. It’s an evening filled with delicious food, drinks, desserts, and lively conversation—plus a little friendly competition during our silent auction. But the heart of the night lies in the stories: stories of challenges overcome, careers launched, and lives changed. We gather to honor the participants, partners, and supporters who make Project IOWA’s mission possible. Come ready to be inspired, uplifted, and reminded of what’s possible when we grow together. This event happens in April.
Locker Wars
This one-of-a-kind fundraising event blends the thrill of a mystery box with the fun of a game show—all while supporting a powerful cause.
Picture this: storage lockers filled with everything from amazing prizes to quirky surprises. Guests buy chances to unlock these lockers, and what’s inside? That’s part of the fun! Some hold gift cards and goodies, others… not so much. But every reveal adds to the energy of the night.
It’s an evening full of laughs, good-natured competition, and shared purpose—bringing our community together to support Project IOWA’s mission of helping individuals connect to purpose and pursue meaningful, stable employment.
This event happens in October.
Celebrations
Every three months, we gather to celebrate the accomplishments of our participants across all Project IOWA programs—Cultivating Careers, YouthWorks, and more. These events honor the hard work, growth, and resilience of our graduates as they complete their journeys with us and move forward into meaningful careers.
We invite alumni, friends and family, supporters, and community partners to join us in recognizing these incredible milestones. Come be inspired by the stories of transformation and see firsthand how Project IOWA is helping individuals—and our community—thrive.
Home for the Holidays
Our final celebration of the year, Home for the Holidays, brings our entire community together to reflect on and honor all that we’ve accomplished throughout the year. From individual success stories to community-wide impact, this special event is a time to reconnect, express gratitude, and look ahead with hope. A lot of great things have happened in our community—join us in celebrating another wonderful year at Project IOWA. Home for the Holidays is in December.
YouthWorks Capstone
The YouthWorks Capstone is an annual celebration recognizing the achievements of our YouthWorks interns and their mentors. Held at the end of the internship program, this event highlights the growth, dedication, and future aspirations of the young people who’ve participated over the past year.
Guests will hear directly from interns as they share their journeys—where they started, what they’ve learned, and where they’re headed next. It’s an inspiring look at how meaningful guidance and opportunity can help shape the next generation of Iowa’s workforce.
Community Poverty Simulations
Community Poverty Simulations offer a powerful, immersive experience designed to deepen understanding of the daily challenges faced by individuals and families living in poverty. Participants take on real-life roles and navigate complex systems around housing, employment, childcare, and more—all within a structured, facilitated simulation.
These events are ideal for employers, educators, service providers, and community members who want to build empathy, awareness, and a deeper commitment to equity. By stepping into someone else’s shoes, participants leave with a greater understanding of how systems—not people—are often the barrier to stability and success.
Community Poverty Simulations only happen a couple of times a year.
Donor Event
Share the Love
Held in February, Share the Love is our way of showing appreciation for the people who make Project IOWA’s mission possible—our alumni, partners, supporters, and community champions. This heart-filled gathering is a celebration of connection, gratitude, and the collective impact we’re making together.
Join us for an uplifting evening filled with stories, smiles, and a few surprises as we recognize those who have gone above and beyond in helping others find purpose, stability, and meaningful employment. It’s a feel-good event you won’t want to miss.