Bank of America says it is doubling down on its efforts to help drive economic opportunity, health care initiatives and racial equality efforts in Iowa and nationally, as part of a four-year, $1 billion commitment the global bank recently made to support local communities. 

“Bank of America recognizes that the private sector can play a pivotal role in helping our communities, and we are committed to doing more to improve economic opportunity and racial equality across Iowa,” said Heidi Parkhurst, Iowa market president for Bank of America. “We will continue to focus on the ultimate goal of creating lasting change in every Iowa community.” 

The $1 billion initiative “builds on economic mobility and workforce development programs Bank of America already supports in local markets, but will sharpen the focus of that work, accelerate the resources, and add a particular emphasis on health services during the pandemic,” the bank said. 

In Iowa, Bank of America has already deployed $220,000 to eight local organizations across the state as communities faced unprecedented challenges from the coronavirus. Additional projects may include support to minority-owned small businesses, including clients and vendors; career re-skilling or upskilling through partnerships with high schools and community colleges; and operating support and investment for affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization.