DES MOINES, Iowa – Volunteer Iowa is a state agency charged with connecting Iowans of all ages and backgrounds with opportunities to use service as a means for addressing pressing community challenges.
With a vision to create an Iowa where all citizens are empowered through service to meet community challenges and make lives better, Volunteer Iowa connects agencies in need with programming that addresses those needs.
“Being selected as the MFLCares charity was an amazing surprise for Volunteer Iowa.” said Jamie Nagel, Program Development Director. “We will use the funding to support our AmeriCorps Member Emergency/Financial Assistance Fund. This is a new initiative of our organization, and it means a lot that Midwest Family Lending recognizes the importance of our efforts. With the assistance that is being provided, we’ll be able to open the Emergency/Financial Assistance Fund up to a new group of AmeriCorps members. This support will have a direct, positive impact on the financial wellbeing of Iowa AmeriCorps members.”
Through MFLCares, Midwest Family Lending team members nominate a charity or cause that is meaningful to them. Molly Maguire, CVLS, CRMS, CCS licensed home loan originator, nominated Volunteer Iowa’s AmeriCorp Member Emergency/Financial Assistance Fund because of the help it provides those serving our communities.
“AmeriCorp members are serving our communities and making a big impact,” says Molly. “They do so on a small monthly stipend. If someone has an unexpected expense (such as flat tire, brake replacement, etc.) they can apply to this emergency fund for reimbursement. This financial help enables them to continue serving our communities without having to go into debt or leave the program.”
What’s it all about?
One of the primary functions of Volunteer Iowa is to work with organizations and communities to help them use service as a strategy to fulfill their missions by engaging Iowans in addressing pressing community challenges. This is accomplished by connecting those in need with appropriate programming or providing technical assistance on how to better utilize community volunteers. Programs include AmeriCorps, Disaster Volunteers, Future Ready Iowa Mentoring, Iowa MENTOR, Volunteer Generation Fund, State Volunteer Recognition Programs, and RSVP.
More about the programs
AmeriCorps
Disaster Volunteers
When disaster strikes, help is needed! This is an opportunity for spontaneous volunteers to jump in and help during disasters such as floods, tornadoes, and hurricanes.
Future Ready Iowa Mentoring
This statewide networking and professional development opportunity connects students with professionals in the workforce.
Iowa MENTOR
This program provides certification, recognition, training, marketing, and technical assistance for local youth mentoring programs.
Volunteer Generation Fund
Grants from this fund strengthen the infrastructure for effective local volunteering through Service Enterprise Initiative (SEI) and Volunteer Centers of Iowa (VCI).
State Volunteer Recognition Programs
Governor’s Volunteer Awards and Iowa Volunteer Hall of Fame
RSVP
Volunteer Iowa coordinates state funding for the RSVP program serving Iowa. One of the largest volunteer networks in the nation for people 55 and older, this program utilizes the competence, wisdom, and experience of older volunteers.
How can you help? We’re glad you asked!
Most Iowa AmeriCorps programs are recruiting members right now. You can find out more about AmeriCorps programs at Join AmeriCorps
Volunteer Iowa also coordinates the Give Back Iowa Challenge each spring to encourage employer-supported volunteering. Find out more at Give Back Iowa Challenge
MFLCares about Volunteer Iowa!
MFLCares is a program of Midwest Family Lending, a local mortgage company committed to creating customers for life and making positive community impact. Through MFLCares, we support and promote central Iowa charities. Check out our calendar to learn about the incredible organizations we’ve recently supported that are making a positive impact in our communities!
