2024 United Way of Central Iowa Giving Campaign For Faculty & Staff

The season of giving is upon us and it is time for our annual United Way of Central Iowa giving campaign! Your optional contribution can be financial or needed supplies for area Des Moines Public School food pantries, or both. We have reinstated some fun, giving-level incentives as well.

The campaign will kick-off on Monday, November 18 with an email from Mary Sellers from United Way of Central Iowa. Some highlights to share:

  • The campaign is part of our commitment as an anchor institution and to the Des Moines community
  • One hundred percent of the funds donated remain in central Iowa (Polk, Dallas, and Warren counties)
  • 10,544 people were served last year in the 50311 zip code
  • United Way financially supports 15 organizations that are partners with Drake including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa

For any financial contributions to the campaign, we have reinstated giving level incentives to celebrate our participation. From free parking passes, many Starbucks gift-cards, basketball game tickets, and more! See this page for the details and thank you to our many campus partners who made these incentives possible.

New this year: a supply drive in partnership with Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS) will be Tuesday, Nov. 19 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Olmsted Breezeway.  DMPS has requested:

  • Plastic grocery bags (yes, the hundreds of these you have at home)
  • Peanut butter
  • Canned fruit & vegetables
  • Cereal: bagged or boxed
  • Rice: bagged or boxed
  • Beans: canned
  • Paper products: toilet paper, paper towels, and diapers

Overall, our 2024 United Way of Central Iowa campaign goal is to exceed 33% participation from our full-time faculty and staff.

If you have any questions or do not receive the email from Mary Sellers on November 18th and wish to participate, please reach out to Nate Reagen.

Thank you for your support and generosity in advance!

Nate Reagen, President’s Office