The United Work of Iowa Nice

What does Iowa Nice look like when it’s more than politeness—when it’s organized, intentional, and ready to show up? In this episode, Meghann Foster talks with Jennifer Banta, President and CEO of United Way of Johnson & Washington Counties, about the real work of caring for a community. From supporting 29 partner agencies to mobilizing volunteers, donors, and local leaders across a twenty-city region, Jennifer shares how collaboration—not charity alone—creates lasting impact. They discuss what it means to be a true safety net, how communities respond when disaster strikes, and why improving lives requires more than good intentions—it takes coordination, trust, and people willing to work together. This is Iowa Nice in action: neighbors helping neighbors, systems built with care, and a reminder that kindness is strongest when it’s united. Learn more about United Way of Johnson and Washington Counties. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices