frequently Asked Questions

How much time does it take to participate?

Each weekday, plan to spend 15 - 30 minutes engaging with the content and reflecting on the journal questions. If you're taking the Equity Challenge as part of a group, you may want to schedule a weekly one-hour meeting to discuss that week's content.

Does it cost anything to register?

The 21-Day Equity Challenge is completely free to anyone who wants to participate. Just provide your email address, and you'll receive each day's content in your inbox at 7 a.m.

What will I learn about?

Each of the 21 days of the Equity Challenge features a different topic, with articles, podcasts, videos, songs, and more. The topics include:

• Shared Language
• Implicit Bias
•  Privilege
• Racism
• Learning Disparities
• Foster Youth
• Child Care
• Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
• Physical and Maternal Health
• Mental Health
• History of Experimentation/Impact of COVID-19
• Redlining
• Housing Disparities & Discrimination
• Generational Wealth
• Workplace
• Justice System
• Issues Unique to Marginalized Communities 

What if I miss a day?

Although the topics build upon the knowledge and understanding you gain during the Equity Challenge, the content of any single day can be consumed on its own. If you start falling behind, miss a day or two, or accidentally delete an email, you can find the content on the United Ways of Iowa website. This is also an easy way to share the content with others who you think might want to see it.

What does the term "equity" mean?

According to Angelica Vannatta, a member of our curriculum committee, equity strives to give people what they need, when they need it, and how they need it — in order to achieve their best possible lives. Equity is different from equality, which involves treating everyone the same way, regardless of their circumstances, needs, or abilities. 

Can I participate with a group or company?

Yes, feel free to connect with others and discuss the content together, whether as a formal team of co-workers at your company or a casual group of family, friends, or neighbors. It's best that everyone in the group signs up for the challenge individually, so they can engage with the content throughout the week. Consider hosting weekly roundtable discussions to further reflect on your learning. A good place to start: Review the journal questions together.

How do I promote the challenge to friends, family, and co-workers?

We'd love for you to share the 21-Day Equity Challenge with others in your network. When you register for the challenge, you'll be taken to a page with a sample social post and graphic to share. Your confirmation email will include that, as well. We recommend "challenging" two friends on social media to join. Not a social media person? Just tell people to sign up at IowaEquityChallenge.org.

Do I have to live in Iowa to participate?

Although the United Ways of Iowa Equity Challenge is centered around Iowa experiences, perspectives, and attitudes, the content is largely universal. Anyone can sign up — all you need is an email address.

Why do you need to know my ZIP code?

We'll use your ZIP code to associate you with the local United Way in your area. You'll receive the 21-Day Equity Challenge emails from that United Way — and be invited to any related discussions or events they host.

Don't have an Iowa ZIP code? No problem! You'll receive the content from United Ways of Iowa. 

Curriculum Committee

The content for each day of the Equity Challenge has been curated by a curriculum committee composed of representatives from multiple United Ways who are experts on equity or have lived experience with prejudice and discrimination.

Emma Andeway
Director of Community Engagement
United Way of Wapello County

Michella Friesen
Executive Director
United Way of Mahaska County

Paula Paider Licht
Director of Community Building & Impact
United Way Of Dubuque Area Tri-states

Choua Sayaxang
Board Member
United Way of Mahaska County

Emily Schutz
Intern
United Way of Mahaska County 

Angelica Vannatta
Senior Manager, Volunteer Engagement
United Way of East Central Iowa

History of the Challenge

The original 21-Day Equity Challenge was created by Dr. Eddie Moore, Jr., Director of the Privilege Institute in Green Bay, WI. He received his Ph.D. in Educational Policy and Leadership Studies at the University of Iowa. Under his direction, his White Privilege Conference has become one of the top national and international conferences for participants who want to move beyond dialogue and into action around issues of diversity, power, privilege, and leadership.

Dr. Moore designed the challenge to not only help people better understand the issues surrounding equity and inclusion, but to do so in a way that would build a long-lasting habit of learning by stretching it over 21 days.

About UNITED WAYS of IOwa

United Ways of Iowa is a membership association of local United Ways serving the state of Iowa. Our efforts focus on supporting the outstanding work of local United Ways across the state, and working as a network to further build upon our collective impact in Iowa.

Since 2005, United Ways across the state have collaborated on public policy, serving as a neutral voice and a go-to resource on health and human services as the state capitol.

In 2008, United Ways of Iowa expanded our efforts to build collaboration in areas such as professional development and community impact. In 2011, United Ways of Iowa began implementing a three-year strategic plan that focuses on achieving our mission: to bring together the power of United Ways and their local communities to drive impact in Education, Income and Health.