Overview
This October, the Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB) is proud to join the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy in celebrating the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). This nationwide observance honors the many contributions people with disabilities make to America’s workplaces and economy.
A Message from IDB's Director
At the Iowa Department for the Blind, we know that employment is more than a paycheck—it’s the chance to use your talents, make a difference in a field you’re passionate about, expand your social network, learn about community events, and have the resources to take vacations, pursue hobbies, and fully participate in community life. This is why we at IDB are so passionate about empowering blind and low vision Iowans to enter, remain, and advance in the workforce. National Disability Employment Awareness Month is a chance to celebrate the talent, passion, and value that blind and low vision Iowans contribute to our state’s workforce every day.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” reflects what we see constantly in our work: people who, when equipped with training, technology, and high expectations, are able to thrive in careers across every industry. Our role at IDB is to ensure that Iowans who are blind or have low vision have the tools and training they need to compete on equal footing, pursue their goals, and reach their full potential.
This October, I invite you to join us in recognizing the achievements of blind and low vision Iowans, and in recommitting ourselves to creating workplaces where every person’s talents are valued.
Sincerely,
Stacy Cervenka
Director, Iowa Department for the Blind
Spotlights
At IDB, we celebrate the skills, talents, and achievements of our clients year-round. During October, we’re excited to shine an even brighter light on their successes. Each Friday throughout the month, we will feature a client spotlight, sharing stories that demonstrate how, with the right training and tools, everyone can achieve independence and employment.
Learn more
To learn more about NDEAM, please visit the Office of Disability Employment Policy's website at https://www.dol.gov/agencies/odep/initiatives/ndeam