Move from crisis to stability
We believe every person should have the opportunity to move beyond survival and build a stable, secure future.
Building toward a
strong future
1,111
individuals served at the Opportunity Center receiving support with job applications and resumes
1,995
free tax returns filed last year through the VITA program
99
individuals housed from the LandLord Tenant Program
Mark Polking
VITA Volunteer of over 5 Years
“One story that stands out is one couple we helped, learned how credits, standard deduction, and paycheck withholdings impacted their refund. When they saw the final amount, they were overjoyed – hugging each other and high-fiving us. These are the moments that keep us coming back.“
What we do
We support our friends and neighbors for them to have a safe home and a quality job, creating a strong foundation for success.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program
Trained volunteers help working individuals and families file their taxes for free and claim every credit they’re owed.
Opportunity Center
The Opportunity Center at Ladd Library is a collaboration between the Cedar Rapids Public Library, Kirkwood Community College, the United Way of East Central Iowa, HACAP, and the City of Cedar Rapids.
Funded Partner Programs
Creating lasting chance takes more than one organization. UWECI works alongside local partners to identify our community’s greatest needs, brings the right people and partners together, and invest in solutions that help every person and every community thrive.
Homeless Systems
The Alliance is a multi-jurisdictional collaboration led by Linn County put together to develop a comprehensive housing solution plan with tangible action steps to identify solutions for each of the housing issues identified by the community.
Volunteer
Give your time and become a VITA volunteer. No previous tax experience is needed. Support individuals and families in our community by helping them go through the tax process. Learn more at uweci.org/vita
Invest
Your gift to UWECI will support individuals and families receive free tax preparation help and workforce support like job searches and resume help. Donate at uweci.org/donate.
Advocate
Keep yourself informed of housing issues in East Central Iowa. Visit exhibits in museums, attend public meetings around housing plans, and research other housing bills impacting your area.