Overview
The Iowa Department for the Blind is a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) service agency providing employment services to all eligible blind and low vision Iowans. Through our counseling and training programs, vocational rehabilitation counselors will work with you to achieve your career goals.
VR Services
- Career Counseling
Our experienced counselors will work with you on career research and exploration, so that you will have all the information you need to make your career choice. We will work with you to choose a job goal consistent with your strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, and interests. Learn more about our Employment Services - Counseling & Guidance
Vocational Rehabilitation counseling and guidance includes information and support services to assist an individual in exercising informed choice and is distinct from the case management relationship that exists between the counselor and the individual during the VR process. - Access Technology Training for Employment
We will work with you to obtain the devices, technology, and training you may require to be successful at work or school. Learn more about our Technology Services - Job-seeking Assistance
We work with you to create a job-search plan that may include: Creating a cover letter, Building a resume, Preparing for an interview, Post-interview correspondence, and Locating job-search and placement resources - Supported Employment Assistance
Supported Employment means ongoing support services, including customized employment, needed to support and maintain an individual with a most significant disability in competitive integrated employment. Learn more about Supported Employment Services - Work Site Assessment
Our staff will visit your job or potential job site and provide an assessment to help you determine if any alternative techniques or accommodations are needed. We will work with you and your employer to provide any access technology or additional training. - Self-employment Planning
Do you dream of running your own business? Through our Business Enterprises Program (BEP) and involvement with the Iowa Self-Employment program and other small business support programs, we can offer expert advice in planning, improving, and starting your own business. - Post-Employment Follow-up
After you have achieved your employment goal, your VR counselor will continue to serve as a resource to you and your employer. If questions arise in the future about how to handle changes in technology or duties, we are there to help. - Social Security Benefits
If you have questions about how future employment will impact your benefits and services, our counselors will assist you in finding the appropriate benefits coordinator. Learn how working will impact your Social Security benefits.
VR Programs
- 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, including operating convenience sites and more. - Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)
Our Pre-ETS Programming offers dynamic workplace readiness training in a variety of engaging environments designed to prepare students (ages 14-21) for post-secondary opportunities.
How do I get started?
Application Process
To apply for services, 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. Learn about Your Rights & Responsibilities.
What to Expect
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselors work with you to develop a vocational goal and a plan for achieving it. VR Counselors arrange for the services and tools that you need to participate in training or education, as well as assist you in finding employment. After receiving services from IDB, individuals may return to the jobs they formerly held, change careers, or go into business for themselves. Learn about Field Training Expectations.
Additional Information Regarding Vocational Rehabilitation Services