Overview of Iowa Blindness Empowerment and Independence Center

The Iowa Blindness Empowerment and Independence Center is a residential pre-vocational training program located in downtown Des Moines. Here, blind and legally blind men and women take classes in Braille, computer and technology, home and personal management, travel with the long white cane, industrial arts, and a discussion group called the Business of Blindness. During this training, they develop self-confidence and a positive attitude about themselves and their blindness. Learn about the classes offered in the center.

The skills and attitudinal training the Center provides to blind adults is unique. It is based upon the fact that the real problem of blindness is not the physical loss of eyesight but the misconceptions held about blindness by the general public and by many blind people themselves. With the appropriate training and the opportunity to put that training into practice, blind and legally blind people can live independently and work competitively. This positive approach to blindness works.

Center students learn the skills and develop the self-confidence that empowers them to become gainfully employed and to live independently. As a result, they can enjoy the same opportunities as their sighted peers at work, at school, at home, and in their communities.

Listen to the "Dishwashing Tape" about the Department's positive philosophy on blindness.