Opportunities From: United Way of Central Iowa

VNS of Iowa's Storybook Project recruits, screens and trains volunteers to work with incarcerated parents and/or grandparents at the Iowa Correctional Institute for Women (ICIW) in Mitchellville, Iowa and the Newton Correctional Release Center (CNRC) in Newton, Iowa.

Once per month, volunteers work with the mother, grandmother or father. The parent/grandparent and volunteer choose a book from the Storybook library that is appropriate for the child. The parent or grandparent reads the book while the volunteer records the reading onto a digital voice recorder. The book and CD are mailed to the child.

 

 Welcoming a new baby requires a lot of gear, and many moms simply can’t afford these basic items.

You can help by hosting a Stork’s Nest Baby Shower!

Invite friends from work or church or the neighborhood - gifts will go directly to pregnant women in Polk County who live on an income less than 150% of the Federal Poverty Limit. You plan the party, and we’ll provide information about what these moms need most. Start your guest list today!

 

5-2-1-0 is the foundation of change of an evidence-based childhood obesity prevention program addressing many aspects of wellness. Its message is used to aid children, ages birth to 18, make healthy lifestyle choices.  5-2-1-0 helps to create a sustainable healthy environment for staff, children and families.

Throughout the year we have several opportunities available to help with providing health and wellness information and education to the community.  Full training will be provided.

Some examples of activities you may be involved in, include;

Share information on various health related topics. Demonstrate simple and fun activities for families. Collect current health behavior data. Share available resources with families.

Please note, all volunteers will be required to complete a background check, TB test and drug testing.