What We Do
At Project IOWA, we believe that meaningful, stable employment transforms lives, families, and communities.
Through innovative programming, strategic partnerships, and community-centered initiatives, we connect individuals to purpose, employers to prepared and passionate talent, and donors to real, lasting impact. We also offer professional development and customized support to help businesses strengthen their teams and build inclusive workplace cultures.
Rooted in our mission to facilitate individual transformation, our work helps people thrive—whether they’re discovering a career path, expanding their workforce, or investing in a stronger Central Iowa.
Explore what we do and how you can be part of it.
Our Programs
Cultivating Careers
Cultivating Careers is a four-week, transformational program designed to help individuals uncover their strengths, gain essential job and life skills, and build the confidence to take the next step. Through personalized coaching, peer support, and purpose-driven planning, participants prepare not just for work—but for long-term success and stability.
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YouthWorks
YouthWorks prepares high school seniors for life beyond graduation by helping them explore careers, develop soft skills, and build confidence. Through hands-on experiences and coaching, students start to envision what’s possible—and how to get there. Local businesses can get involved by hosting or sponsoring student internships, investing in the next generation of Iowa’s workforce.
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The Rooted Model
The Rooted Model places Career Coaches directly in trusted community spaces—like food pantries—offering personalized support, employment guidance, and connections to resources. Designed for long-term, one-on-one engagement, this approach helps individuals take steady steps toward stability and purpose, right where they are.
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Poverty Simulations
The Missouri Community Action Poverty Simulation (CAPS) offers a powerful, immersive experience that helps participants better understand the challenges faced by individuals living in poverty. Through guided reflection and facilitated discussion, organizations gain insight into systemic barriers—and how to create more equitable, compassionate policies and practices.
Services
At Project Iowa, we offer customized professional services designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses, educational institutions, nonprofits, and government agencies. Whether you’re seeking to upskill your workforce, develop a talent pipeline, provide wraparound support, or address systemic workforce barriers, we bring years of expertise in career readiness, coaching, and community engagement to every collaboration.
Our services include:
- Workforce training and career pathway development
- Employer-focused recruitment partnerships
- Career readiness workshops and coaching
- Poverty simulations and equity-focused education
- Strategic consulting on inclusive workforce practices
We collaborate closely with each partner to develop solutions that align with your mission and workforce goals. Whether you’re looking to expand career access, strengthen community impact, or build a more inclusive talent pipeline, Project Iowa offers the insight and support to help you get there.