MercyOne and United Way of Central Iowa share a deep commitment to improving the health and well-being of our community. This powerful partnership is built on a foundation of shared values and a collective vision for a healthier future for all. Since 1993, MercyOne Des Moines Foundation has raised more than $3.6 million through their Annual Campaign to benefit United Way and its mission.  

United Way plays a vital role in identifying and addressing critical health needs within our community. As a key partner in MercyOne's Community Health Needs Assessment, United Way helps MercyOne understand the most pressing health challenges facing patients and their communities. This valuable data guides our efforts to prioritize programs and services that make the greatest impact, such as United Way's Central Iowa HealthWorks program. This program supports individuals facing barriers to employment with the training, support, and resources they need to pursue careers in healthcare, including books, tuition, and supplies. To date, MercyOne has proudly hired 101 individuals who have successfully completed the HealthWorks program! In December of 2024, Mercy College had 26 students in the HealthWorks program graduate, thanks to the generosity of United Way.  

“The support MercyOne receives from United Way of Central Iowa is pivotal to ensuring high quality care for all in Central Iowa,” said Shannon Cofield, President of MercyOne Des Moines Foundation. “Our communities need nurses and healthcare workers now more than ever, and through United Way's Central Iowa HealthWorks program, MercyOne has been able to expand our circle of healing.”  

United Way of Central Iowa is continuously working to improve our communities by helping to prepare the next generation of healthcare workers and encouraging current workers to participate in programs like DMARC Food Pantries, Knock and Drop Food Pantry, Primary Health Centralized Intake, and Iowa Legal Aid.  

Join us in supporting United Way of Central Iowa and their mission by participating in MercyOne Des Moines Foundation’s 2025 Community Partners campaign starting Monday, February 3rd. With your support, United Way and MercyOne can continue to provide outstanding patient care for all in Central Iowa.