The mission of the Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB) is to empower blind Iowans to be gainfully employed and live independently. Its vision is to be the world’s leader in blind rehabilitation services.

IDB's Mission, Vision, Values, and Culture

 

Department services and programs include the following. 

Because the Department is funded primarily through state and federal tax dollars, most of the services it offers are provided to eligible Iowans at no cost to them.

DFB Programs and Services

 

 

Living with Vision Loss

The Iowa Department for the Blind has helped thousands of blind and visually impaired Iowans to manage their vision loss so they can continue to live independently.

The Iowa Department for the Blind helps empower blind and visually impaired Iowans to lead active and fulfilling lives. The Department educates and trains them in alternative techniques while instilling them with confidence for independent living and competitive job placement. These skills enable those with vision loss to fully participate in life, through work, family and community and helps them achieve their dreams.

Independent Living Services
In-home and community-based services throughout Iowa at no cost.

Orientation Center
The Adult Orientation and Adjustment Center provides a curriculum for those ages 17 and older to learn alternative skills for everything from cooking to computers.

Youth Transition Services
The Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB) is dedicated to providing meaningful and high quality vocational rehabilitation services to blind and low-vision transition-age youth across the state. For more information, contact Transition Program Specialist Julie Aufdenkamp at 515-242-5768 or julie.aufdenkamp@blind.state.ia.us.

Find or Keep a Job
The Department provides free employment services to blind and visually impaired Iowans who are looking for a job or want to retain or advance in their current career.

Deaf-Blind Resources
A list of helpful resources for deaf-blind people and their families.

Resources: Learn and Connect
Learn about blindness and connect with community groups and resources.

Vision Loss Support Groups
Meet others in your community experiencing vision loss. Groups are not maintained by the IDB. Contact information is provided.

The Aids & Devices Resource List
Assistive tools & devices that can help in your home and life.

Legal Blindness - Functional Blindness
Definitions for legal and functional blindness.

Success Stories
Read stories about the successes many IDB clients have achieved with the benefit of our services.