FINANCIAL WELL-BEING INITIATIVE
Community Reports
As part of its mission to champion financial well-being for all, ICUF invests in research that sheds light on the financial realities facing Iowans. By sponsoring community reports, ICUF helps uncover barriers to economic stability, amplify underrepresented voices, and provide data that informs meaningful action. These reports serve as valuable tools for credit unions, policymakers and community partners working to create a more equitable and financially secure Iowa.
Economic Realities of Communities of Color in Iowa:
A Statewide Report
In an effort to support financial institutions and community organizations with actionable data, ICUF invested in the creation of this 2023 report. Across the U.S., a disproportionate number of minority communities are financially vulnerable (just one missed paycheck or accident away from a crisis). This report provides further context to these figures nationwide and within Iowa. Our research shows that Iowa households of Color are more than twice as likely as White households to live with an income below the federal poverty level.
The report incorporates both quantitative and qualitative data to provide insight to the economic realities many Iowans are facing. Key areas impacting financial well-being and prosperity are:
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Housing
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Education
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Childcare
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Employment
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Business Ownership
Direct Care Workers of Iowa: 2025 Wage & Benefit Survey Results
ICUF is proud to be a multi-year sponsor of the Iowa Caregivers Association Wage Study, which sheds light on the financial challenges faced by Iowa's direct care workforce. As one of the fastest aging states in the nation, Iowa’s demand for home care and direct support professionals continues to grow—yet wages for these critical roles have historically been among the lowest in the state. The study provided valuable insight into how low wages and limited benefits impact not only caregivers and their families, but also the overall stability of Iowa’s communities and economy.
Supporting this research aligned closely with ICUF’s mission to champion financial well-being for all. By helping elevate understanding of wage disparities among essential workers, ICUF helped draw attention to the link between financial security, workforce strength, and quality of care for vulnerable populations. The findings continue to inform advocacy, policy discussions, and community action around fair compensation and workforce development—key elements of creating stronger families, resilient communities, and a more financially stable Iowa.
The State of ALICE in Iowa
ICUF is a past sponsor of ALICE Reports, conducted by United Ways of Iowa. ALICE stands for Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed - representing a large population of Iowans who work and pay taxes, but are unable to afford the basic necessities of housing, food, childcare, healthcare and transportation.
ALICE households represent the very people credit unions were created to serve: hardworking individuals and families who contribute to the economy, yet remain financially vulnerable and one emergency away from crisis. With data available at the state, county, and municipal levels, the report equips credit unions, policymakers, nonprofits, and community leaders with the tools needed to advocate for systemic change and tailor solutions to local needs.
Looking to learn more about ALICE Reports and data? Contact ICUF to connect on these topics or ask for a presentation to your organization.