Project Iowa

08/21/2026

Maybe you know you’re ready for something different and you’re just not sure what that “something” is yet.

That’s where Project Iowa can help.

Through personalized coaching, practical tools, and a supportive community, we’ll help you recognize the strengths and experience you already have and figure out how to use them to move forward.

You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to be ready to take the next step.

Cultivating Careers is offered at no cost. Learn more or sign up at projectiowa.org.

Project Iowa is not just an organization – it’s a community that believes in the power of connecting people to their purpose to find meaningful & stable careers.

08/07/2026

07/31/2026

As we celebrate another incredible year of YouthWorks, we want to congratulate our amazing interns on all they have accomplished!

Over the past year, these young professionals have stepped outside their comfort zones, built valuable workplace skills, formed meaningful relationships, and made lasting contributions to organizations across our community. They embraced new challenges, discovered new strengths, and gained experiences that will shape their futures.

At yesterday's YouthWorks Capstone, they shared their stories of growth, resilience, and success. We couldn't be more proud of each and every one of them.

A heartfelt thank you to our business partners, mentors, families, and supporters who invested their time, encouragement, and expertise throughout this journey. Your commitment helps create opportunities that change lives.

Congratulations, Class of 2026! We can't wait to see where your journey takes you next.

07/28/2026

YouthWorks Spotlight: Meet Nevaeh!

This year, Nevaeh completed her internship with Dress for Success Des Moines, where she expanded her professional knowledge while gaining valuable experience in a mission-driven organization dedicated to empowering others.

When asked why she chose to participate in YouthWorks, Nevaeh shared:
"I joined YouthWorks because I was ready to advance my professional knowledge. I was given an amazing opportunity at Dress for Success."

YouthWorks helps students move beyond the classroom by providing meaningful internship experiences where they can develop professional skills, learn from experienced mentors, and discover new career possibilities. Opportunities like Nevaeh's allow students to grow their confidence while making a difference in the community.

Congratulations, Nevaeh! Thank you for being part of the YouthWorks Class of 2026. We're proud of everything you've accomplished and can't wait to see where your journey takes you next!

07/27/2026

NEW LOCATION: We're thrilled to announce that we'll be celebrating our YouthWorks interns at the beautiful Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines.

A heartfelt thank you to Hoyt Sherman Place for graciously opening your doors to us. Your generosity is helping us create a memorable celebration for an incredible group of young adults as they mark this important milestone.

Join us as we recognize a remarkable group of young professionals who have spent the past year building skills, gaining real-world experience, and preparing for bright futures. We can't wait to celebrate their accomplishments in this incredible venue!

NEW LOCATION: Hoyt Sherman Place | 1501 Woodland Avenue |
Des Moines, IA 50309

We hope to see you there as we celebrate the next generation of Iowa's workforce!

07/24/2026

YouthWorks Spotlight: Meet Eh Lwet!

This year, Eh Lwet completed an internship with RAYGUN, gaining valuable hands-on experience while building workplace skills in a creative and collaborative environment.

When asked why she chose to participate in YouthWorks, Eh Lwet shared:
"I saw a great opportunity to gain work experience more easily than trying to find work on my own."

Finding that first professional opportunity can be one of the biggest challenges for young adults. YouthWorks connects students with meaningful internships where they can gain real-world experience, build confidence, and develop the skills employers are looking for. For students like Eh Lwet, it's more than just an internship it's the beginning of a career journey.

Congratulations, Eh Lwet! Thank you for being part of the YouthWorks Class of 2026. We're proud of everything you've accomplished and can't wait to see where your journey takes you next!