Who We Are
Since 1970, United Action for Youth (UAY) has been dedicated to nurturing the potential of young people throughout Johnson County. We believe every young person deserves a place to belong, opportunities to explore who they are, and support to navigate life's challenges. Rooted in community and guided by the voices of youth, we work to create a safe, supportive environment where all young people have the freedom to create, grow, and succeed on their own terms.
Our Mission:
To nurture the potential for all youth to create, grow, and succeed.
Our Vision:
Young people and adults working together in partnership to create a safe and healthy community.
The People Behind the Mission
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Behind UAY's mission is a dedicated team of people who believe in the potential of every young person. From direct service staff to organizational leadership, our team brings compassion, creativity, and expertise to the work we do. Together, we're committed to building meaningful relationships, strengthening our community, and creating opportunities for young people to thrive.
Executive Director
Talia Meidlinger
Talia.Meidlinger@
unitedactionforyouth.org
Director of Finance & People
Maggie Welchhance
Maggie.Welchhance@
unitedactionforyouth.org
Director of Operations
Olanthda Fields
Olanthda.Fields@
unitedactionforyouth.org
Prevention Program Director
Kylie Buddin
Kylie.Buddin@
unitedactionforyouth.org
Intervention Program Director
Brittany Bigley
Brittany.Bigley@
unitedactionforyouth.org
Stabilization Program Director
Alejandra Escobar
Alejandra.Escobar@
unitedactionforyouth.org
Director of Development & Communications
Gianna Harvey
Gianna.Harvey@
unitedactionforyouth.org
Runaway & Homeless Youth Compliance Manager
Franki McCutcheon
Franki.McCutcheon@
unitedactionforyouth.org
Name
info
Board of Directors
Will Downing, Board Chair
RDG Planning & Design
Yasmine Rezai, Treasurer
Lepic-Kroeger Realtors
Michael Colburn
University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital
Eleanor Dilkes
Former City Attorney, City of Iowa City
Natasha Wendt
Urban Acres Real Estate
Danica Bird
Leff Law Firm
Megan Davis-DeGeus
University of Iowa
Michelle Weidl
Roman Terrill
Integrated DNA Technologies