The Iowa Department for the Blind is a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) service agency providing employment services to all blind and low vision Iowans. Through our counseling and training programs, our rehabilitation counselors and teachers will work with you to achieve your career goals.
List items for VR Services
Not sure what kind of job you want? Our experienced staff can provide you with advice and information that will help you choose a job goal that is consistent with your strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, interests, and informed choice.
Given the proper training and opportunity, a blind person can compete for jobs in the open marketplace alongside their sighted peers. We work with blind and low vision Iowans to develop the skills, self-confidence, and positive attitude they need to have the job or career they want.
We will work with you to obtain the devices, technology, and training you may require to be successful at work or school.
We can work with you to construct a job-search plan, develop job-seeking skills, write a resume, practice interviewing, and locate job-search and placement resources.
Some individuals, such as those with little work experience or multiple disabilities in addition to blindness, require additional, intensive employment services to be successful at a job. For these individuals, we can offer job coaching, customized employment, and extended services.
Our staff can visit your job or possible job site and help you figure out whether alternative techniques and/or accommodations will help you perform the essential functions of the job. If you need training in alternative techniques or technology, we will do that, too. We will work with an employer to provide you with access technology equipment you may require on the job.
Many dream of running their own business. Through our involvement with the Iowa Self-Employment program, we can offer expert advice in planning, improving, or starting your own business.
After you have achieved your employment goal, your VR counselor can continue to serve as a resource to both you and your employer. If questions arise in the future about how to handle changes in technology or duties, we are there to help.
A number of state and federal programs are available in Iowa that offer financial assistance, medical coverage, housing assistance, and more. Each program listed has its own rules and eligibility requirements.
Orientation Center for the Blind (OC) Training your way, techniques that work, true independence. Located in Des Moines, the OC provides courses and training tracks that are designed to fit your life.
Statewide Skills Retreats Skills Retreats offer a dynamic and engaging week filled with opportunities to learn new skills, connect with others, enjoy exciting activities — and so much more!
Business Enterprise Program (BEP) BEP provides opportunities for legally blind Vocational Rehabilitation clients of the Iowa Department for the Blind to manage their own businesses -- operating vending machines, roadside vending sites, or snack bar/catering services.
Youth Programs & Services Our Youth Programming offers dynamic workplace readiness training in a variety of engaging environments designed to prepare students for post-secondary opportunities.
Please use this form to submit a referral to the Iowa Department for the Blind. Enter the name of the individual being referred, and we will contact them to discuss our services and answer any questions.
