Make Iowa Nice Again with Meghann Foster

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

On this episode of Make Iowa Nice, host Meghann Foster sits down with the leaders behind one of the community’s most powerful engines of kindness: the Coralville Community Food Pantry. Executive Director John Boller and Community Projects Coordinator Hai Huynh share how their work turns “Iowa Nice” from a slogan into something you can actually hold in your hands — food on the table, community support, and dignity for families across Coralville.John and Hai talk about the real challenges

Happy Thanksgiving! On this week’s “mini” episode, Meghann shares her thoughts on the importance of finding moments of joy and gratitude during difficult times. We'll be back with new episodes soon. Take care, everyone!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For more than 50 years, the Neighborhood Centers have been at the heart of Iowa City—creating spaces where children learn, families grow stronger, and neighbors connect. What began in the early 1970s as a grassroots effort to support families has grown into a vital network of programs that respond to the unique needs of the community.From early childhood education and after-school programs, to youth leadership, family support, and neighborhood outreach, the Centers focus on solutions shaped by

When people think about libraries, the first thing that comes to mind is access to informational resources. But the role of libraries is evolving. Today, libraries aren’t just about checking out books or other forms of media. Libraries are becoming an important part of the social safety net in our communities. More people are using libraries to connect with crucial services such as access to food, housing supports, mental health resources, and much more. Many libraries are responding by partnering

Make Iowa Nice Again with Meghann Foster is a podcast about rebuilding communities through care and compassion. As a local leader, Meghann has seen both the power of community to heal and the harm caused by Iowa’s current—and sometimes past—cultural climate. Each episode lifts up the organizations, leaders, and everyday Iowans who are working to create the future we deserve.Through stories of resilience and possibility, this show reminds us that community care is the key to thriving—not just