Iowa Finance Authority
Iowa Finance Authority (IFA)is a statewide agency that has expanded access to affordable housing and community development through innovative financing programs for over 40 years.
AUDIENCE: Affordable housing professionals including developers, lenders, nonprofit leaders, shelter providers, and realtors (600 attendees)
LOCATION: Des Moines, Iowa
CHALLENGE: Navigate high-stress, emotionally demanding roles, helping vulnerable Iowans secure housing and resolve complexities in sustainability, automation, and infrastructure while refining programs to anticipate future trends and foster community development
CARA BROOKINS’ SOLUTION:
40-minute keynote: “Raise My Roof” + 5-minute Q&A
Delivered live at IFA’s Annual Conference at the Iowa Events Center
Coordinated with Macmillan Speakers Bureau and event contact Ashley Jared
Introductory remarks by IFA Executive Director Carolann Jensen
Participated in networking reception: “Block Party”
Joined plenary luncheon with featured speaker Frank Abagnale
The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) has been a cornerstone of community development and affordable housing solutions in Iowa for over four decades. With a mission rooted in service and sustainability, IFA supports programs that assist low to moderate income Iowans in finding secure, stable housing, often during the most vulnerable times in their lives.
In September 2018, IFA hosted its Annual Conference at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines. Themed “Flock to the Block,” the event brought together over 600 professionals from across the affordable housing ecosystem, realtors, nonprofit leaders, property managers, service providers, lenders, and shelter representatives. While the work of these attendees is vital, it is often emotionally taxing and underappreciated. The IFA team needed a speaker who could deliver a heartfelt message of perseverance and purpose.
Cara Brookins was selected to deliver the keynote titled “Raise My Roof.” In a 40-minute presentation followed by a Q&A, Cara shared her story of rebuilding a life, starting with building a literal house. Her message resonated deeply with professionals who spend their days creating stable foundations for others. Drawing strong parallels between personal rebuilding and community resilience, she encouraged attendees to see their work not only as housing, but as hope.
Cara was introduced by IFA Executive Director Carolann Jensen and later joined the Block Party networking reception and plenary luncheon with fellow speaker Frank Abagnale. Her ability to engage across formal and informal settings left a lasting impression.
The event reaffirmed Cara’s impact as a motivational keynote speaker who speaks directly to mission-driven audiences, particularly in the nonprofit, housing, and social service sectors. Her presence helped strengthen connections, spark renewed purpose, and offer a powerful reminder that helping others starts with believing you can build something new, even from the ground up.
