The Iowa Department for the Blind is excited to offer several programs to blind and low vision Iowans age 14 -22. Please contact Ambrose Ball-Harney at (515) 829-7411 or Ambrose.BallHarney@blind.state.ia.us for more information. We look forward to working with you!
2025 LEAP Sessions
LEAP is divided into four two-week, themed sessions:
Block 1: Razzle Dazzle (June 8-June 21)
Block 2: Kick It Into Gear (June 22-July 3)
Mid-Summer Break: July 4-July 12
Block 3: Beyond the Block (July 13-July 26)
Block 4: Don't Forget About LEAP (July 27-August 9)
LEAP will conclude with a Family Day on August 9. During this event, students will showcase their summer achievements through a deliciously prepared meal. This is a fantastic opportunity for families to connect with program staff, share insights, and discuss strategies for continued growth and success!
Fill out this form to apply for LEAP 2025
Students may attend all or part of the summer as their schedules allow.
About LEAP
Leadership Education Advocacy Program
LEAP, a summer residential program, provides youth ages 14-21 the chance to connect with friends, learn blindness skills, build confidence, and prepare for their transition to higher education or to enter the workplace with confidence.
Participants learn how to be successful with braille, technology, travel, home management, college preparation, job readiness training, independent living, and they will gain positive and meaningful philosophy through training with blind role models and supportive staff.
Itβs not all work at LEAP β Participants experience a wide variety of activities such as attending an Iowa Cubs game, rock climbing, axe throwing, going to the movies, hanging out at the mall, jumping around at a trampoline park, Adventureland, playing goalball, grilling, swimming, and much more!
In addition, some LEAP participants will have the opportunity to choose whether a group of students will attend the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) or the American Council of the Blind (ACB) conventions held in July. These conventions offer participants a wide variety of resources from across the country and even the world, including career-driven divisions, divisions specifically for students, technology workshops, job fairs, networking opportunities, and advocacy opportunities. Convention dates will be approximately between July 2nd and July 13th.