Iowa Department of Human Rights Newsletter

iowa department of human rights

April 1, 2022


The Iowa Department of Human Rights (DHR) brings strength to Iowa's rich heritage.  Our three divisions - Community Action Agencies, Community Advocacy and Services, and Criminal and Juvenile Justice Planning - work to reduce cultural, social, and economic barriers to opportunities for Iowans to succeed.



Juvenile Delinquency Prevention -
Pre-Charge Diversion Funding Opportunity

The Iowa Department of Human Rights’ Division of Criminal and Juvenile Justice Planning was awarded Juvenile Delinquency Prevention discretionary grant funding from the federal Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. The Iowa Juvenile Justice Advisory Council, state advisory group, has invested additional funds, which will be distributed through this competitive award process. The focus for the funding is for communities to implement or expand pre-charge diversion programs for juveniles over the next five years. For detailed information, please visit

https://humanrights.iowa.gov/pre-charge-diversion-funding-opportunity-rfp


Apply for DHR Youth Programs

Iowa Youth Congress

The Iowa Department of Human Rights is accepting applications for the 2022-2023 term of Iowa Youth Congress program. Iowa Youth Congress is a diverse and dynamic group made of up to 100 high school aged youth who will get hands-on experience, training, and knowledge in the areas of state government, leadership, advocacy, and civic engagement. Applications are due June 3, 2022. 

To learn more about IYC: https://bit.ly/IowaYouthCongress

To Apply: https://bit.ly/IowaYouthCongress2022

Iowa Youth Congress

Iowa Youth Congress 2021

State of Iowa Youth Advisory Council

The Iowa Department of Human Rights is accepting applications for the 2022-2023 term of the State of Iowa Youth Advisory Council (SIYAC). SIYAC is a statutory council composed of 21 youth from across Iowa, ages 14-20. Members advocate for youth issues with state and local leaders through advocacy, service, and public awareness. The application and 2 letters of recommendation are due June 3, 2022.

For more information about SIYAC: https://humanrights.iowa.gov/cas/siyac

To apply: https://bit.ly/SIYAC2022


People You Should Know 

At the Department of Human Rights, we are honored to know many Iowans who work without fanfare to make our state better. Our new People You Should Know series will introduce you to Iowans who give their skills, talents and abilities to make a real difference in Human Rights in Iowa.

This month we feature, Congolese Youth Connect Assistant Director, and Storm Lake High School English as a Second Language Educator, Tulia Mulemba.  Do you know someone who should be highlighted in "People You Should Know"? Nominate them here!

 

T. Mulemba

Low-Income Home Water Assistance Program

The Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program provides assistance in the form of benefit payments made directly to water vendors on behalf of households for past-due charges, fees, and taxes for drinking and wastewater services hat have been disconnected or are at risk of disconnection.  The program is administered by the Iowa Department of Human Rights and locally through Iowa’s Community Action Agencies that serve all 99 counties.  The application period is open year-round.  It will run through September 30, 2023, or until funds are exhausted. 

Thank you to the federal Office of Community Services for highlighting Iowa’s Low-Income Home Water Assistance Program.  Check out this video to see how Iowans benefit from this program.  

                                            Generated button


Iowa Spanish Helpline

The Iowa Spanish Helpline helps the Spanish-speaking community in Iowa by providing information, resources and support. The line is answered by professionals from the Latino community.  Hours:  8:00 am - 5:00 pm.  

Iowa Spanish Helpline Flyer


Are You Registered to Vote?

Are you ready to vote in the June primary and November general elections this year?  Visit the Iowa Secretary of State's website on eligibility, absentee voting, ID requirements, voting with disabilities, deadlines, and more.  


New Federal Website Launched - covid.gov 

The federal government has launched a new website, covid.gov, a one-stop shop for the latest information on COVID-19, treatment, vaccines, testing, and additional resources. The website features a new Test-to-Treat locator tool to help people access locations that offer COVID-19 tests and antiviral pills.


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Iowa Department of Human Rights
Lucas State Office Building
321 E 12th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319
515-242-5640 or 1-800-351-4659
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