Iowa Disability Resources, Programs & Services

Iowa has long been committed to supporting its residents with disabilities, ensuring they have access to the necessary services and resources to live fulfilling lives. The state offers a range of programs designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals with physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities, emphasizing inclusivity and community involvement. From healthcare services to educational support and employment opportunities, Iowa provides a comprehensive network of assistance to help individuals with disabilities achieve their full potential.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2024 650,700 adults in Iowa have a disability. This is equal to 26% or 1 in 4 adults in Iowa. These figures highlight the significant portion of the population that relies on various disability services, underscoring the importance of effective and accessible support systems across the state.

Iowa’s approach to disability services focuses on empowering individuals, enabling them to participate fully in their communities, and ensuring their rights are protected. The state’s policies and programs are designed to be responsive to the evolving needs of its residents, reflecting a commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation.

Outlined below are key disability agencies and service organizations in Iowa. These entities play a crucial role in delivering essential services, advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities, and providing the support needed to enhance their quality of life. Whether through direct service provision, education, or advocacy, these organizations are integral to Iowa’s disability services landscape, working tirelessly to create an inclusive environment for all residents.

Iowa Workforce Development offers a variety of employment, education, and training services for individuals with disabilities. Through its IowaWORKS network of American Job Centers, the organization provides job seekers with access to accommodations, assistive technology, and other resources to help them achieve their employment goals.

Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services, a division of Iowa Workforce Development, helps individuals with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment. They offer vocational training, job placement assistance, and support for self-employment, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.

Iowa Coalition for Integrated Employment works to increase competitive, integrated employment opportunities for Iowans with disabilities. This coalition brings together various state agencies and organizations to improve systems and provide technical assistance and training to service providers and employers.

Office of Persons with Disabilities is part of Iowa’s Department of Health and Human Services, providing information, referral, assessment, training, and advocacy services to promote the employment of Iowans with disabilities. The office works to reduce barriers and increase employment opportunities in the general workforce.

Lifeworks Services supports people with disabilities in maintaining employment and advancing their careers. Their job coaches work closely with individuals to tailor support to their needs, helping them build skills and secure meaningful work.

Iowa Disability Benefits Network provides resources to help Iowans with disabilities understand how employment might impact their benefits. This service is crucial for those who want to work but are concerned about losing Social Security or healthcare benefits.

These organizations, among others, are instrumental in supporting the employment goals of individuals with disabilities across Iowa.

Access 2 Independence serves the Eastern Iowa Corridor, including counties like Johnson, Linn, and Benton. They provide a wide range of services including independent living skills training, peer support, and transition services to help people with disabilities live independently in their communities.

Central Iowa Center for Independent Living (CICIL), located in Des Moines, offers services across Central Iowa, including Polk, Story, and Madison counties. CICIL provides independent living skills training, peer support, and benefits planning, helping individuals navigate their path to greater independence.

Disabilities Resource Center of Siouxland (DRCS) focuses on providing services to individuals in the Sioux City area and surrounding counties. They assist with advocacy, skills training, and helping individuals transition from institutional settings to community living.

League of Human Dignity – Southwest Iowa Center for Independent Living offers services across multiple counties in Southwest Iowa. Their services include helping individuals with disabilities access housing, transportation, and other resources needed to live independently.

Illinois/Iowa Center for Independent Living (IICIL) serves counties along the Iowa-Illinois border, including Scott and Muscatine counties. They provide various support services aimed at promoting independent living and community integration for people with disabilities.

These centers, along with others in Iowa, are key resources for individuals with disabilities seeking to live independently and find appropriate housing options within their communities.

Iowa Program for Assistive Technology (IPAT), operated by the University of Iowa’s Center for Disabilities and Development, is the state’s main assistive technology program. IPAT aims to improve access to assistive technology for individuals with disabilities and older Iowans, offering services like device loans, demonstrations, and training.

Easterseals Iowa Assistive Technology Program collaborates with IPAT to provide various assistive technology services across the state. Their program includes a lending library where individuals can borrow devices, as well as training and technical assistance to ensure people can effectively use the technology available to them.

Disability Rights Iowa offers advocacy and resources related to assistive technology, particularly focusing on ensuring that students with disabilities have access to the tools they need in educational settings.

These organizations play a crucial role in enhancing the independence and quality of life for Iowans with disabilities by ensuring they have access to the latest assistive technologies.

The Social Security Administration offers comprehensive information on disability benefits, including how to apply, eligibility requirements, and the types of benefits available. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. Use the Social Security Field Office locator to find a location near you or call toll-free: 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. If you’re deaf or hard of hearing and use TTY equipment, you can call their TTY number at 1-800-325-0778.

The Iowa Disability Determination Services office is responsible for determining the eligibility of Iowans applying for Social Security Disability benefits. You can contact them at 1-800-532-1486 for more information.

Disability Financial Assistance Services provide critical support to individuals with disabilities, helping them manage financial needs that arise due to their condition. Here is a list of some in the state:

The Iowa Division of Workers’ Compensation oversees the workers’ compensation program in the state, providing financial benefits to workers who are injured on the job or develop a work-related illness. Their contact number is 1-800-645-4583.

State Supplementary Assistance is a state-funded program designed to address the special financial needs of aged, blind, and disabled individuals that are not fully met by federal benefits. It covers various categories including in-home health-related care and residential care facility assistance.

Iowa Compass connects Iowans with disabilities to services and supports, including financial assistance resources, ensuring they have access to the help they need to manage their expenses and healthcare.

Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs offers various financial assistance programs specifically for veterans with disabilities, including compensation for service-connected disabilities and pensions for low-income veterans.

Iowa Disability Benefits Network provides comprehensive information and resources on how work might impact disability benefits, helping Iowans with disabilities plan and manage their finances while working.

Disability Recreational Services in Iowa provide accessible opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in sports, outdoor activities, and other leisure pursuits, ensuring inclusivity and community involvement.

Easterseals Iowa offers recreational programs, including camp experiences and adaptive sports leagues, designed to provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to participate in various activities.

University of Iowa Recreation Services provides accessible recreation options such as adaptive fitness classes and equipment rentals, allowing individuals with disabilities to enjoy physical activities tailored to their needs.

Iowa State University Recreation Services offers inclusive recreational programs, including adapted fitness equipment, accessible facilities, and various sports clubs that cater to different abilities.

Adaptive Sports Iowa specializes in providing sports and recreation opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities, including wheelchair basketball, adaptive cycling, and skiing programs.

Iowa Compass connects Iowans with disabilities to recreational resources and programs across the state, helping them find accessible activities that meet their interests and needs.

These organizations ensure that individuals with disabilities in Iowa have access to diverse and inclusive recreational opportunities.

Disability healthcare services in Iowa are designed to provide specialized care and support for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to the healthcare resources they need.

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services – Disability & Health Program offers a wide range of services aimed at addressing health disparities experienced by individuals with disabilities. The program provides resources, training, and technical assistance to promote inclusive healthcare environments.

University of Iowa Health Care – Disability Resource Library serves as a comprehensive resource for individuals with disabilities, their families, and healthcare providers. The library offers a wide range of materials and services to support the healthcare needs of Iowans with disabilities.

Iowa Compass connects Iowans with disabilities to healthcare services and supports within their communities. This program, part of the University of Iowa Health Care, provides information on local healthcare providers, specialized services, and more.

Your Life Iowa, operated by the Iowa Department of Public Health, offers resources and support for individuals facing mental health issues, substance abuse, and other related concerns, ensuring access to necessary healthcare services.

These organizations and programs are critical in supporting the health and well-being of Iowans with disabilities, providing them with the specialized care and resources they require.

Vocational training for people with disabilities in Iowa provides crucial support to help individuals gain skills and employment.

Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS) offers comprehensive services to help individuals with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment. They provide customized training, career planning, job placement assistance, and post-employment support tailored to each person’s needs.

Iowa Department for the Blind provides vocational training specifically designed for individuals with visual impairments. Their programs include skills training, technology training, and job placement services aimed at helping clients achieve competitive, integrated employment.

Disability Determination Services offers services that help individuals with disabilities access vocational rehabilitation, focusing on integrating these individuals into the workforce through tailored training and employment services.

Employment First Initiative is a program supported by Iowa’s Health and Human Services Department that promotes competitive, integrated employment for individuals with disabilities. It offers training and technical assistance to increase employment opportunities across the state.

These organizations are essential in providing vocational training and support to Iowans with disabilities, ensuring they have the skills and opportunities to succeed in the workforce.

Mental health services for people with disabilities in Iowa offer specialized support tailored to meet the needs of this community, ensuring access to appropriate care and resources.

Iowa Mental Health and Disability Services (MHDS) operates across various regions, providing a comprehensive system of mental health and disability services, including crisis intervention, community-based support, and intensive psychiatric rehabilitation services.

Your Life Iowa is a statewide resource offering free information, counseling, and crisis services, available 24/7. It connects Iowans to mental health resources, including those specifically designed for people with disabilities.

Polk County Behavioral Health & Disability Services provides a wide range of services aimed at supporting individuals with mental health challenges and disabilities, including crisis response and ongoing mental health support.

These organizations are dedicated to addressing the unique mental health needs of Iowans with disabilities, ensuring they have access to the care and resources required to lead healthier, more independent lives.

Iowa Department for the Blind provides comprehensive services to help Iowans who are blind or visually impaired live independently and obtain meaningful employment. Their programs include independent living services, vocational rehabilitation, technology services, and a library for the blind.

Iowa Educational Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired (IESBVI) offers educational support and services for children and youth who are blind or visually impaired, from birth to age 21. Their services include direct student services, assistive technology, and family support.

Iowa Vision Resource Center, part of IESBVI, provides materials and devices for students with visual impairments, including assistive technology, Braille resources, and adapted STEM materials for use in educational settings.

Iowa Area Education Agencies (AEA) Vision Services collaborates with the IESBVI and other state agencies to provide specialized vision services for students across Iowa, including evaluations, consultations, and support for educators and families.

These organizations and resources are essential in supporting the vision needs of Iowans with disabilities, offering a wide range of services and tools to help individuals achieve greater independence and success.

Office of Deaf Services provides critical resources and support for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. This office offers assistance with ADA issues, policy development, and access to information in American Sign Language (ASL), ensuring equal communication and access for Iowans.

Iowa Department of Education – Deaf & Hard of Hearing Education focuses on providing educational resources and support for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Services include educational interpreting, early literacy implementation, and expanded core curriculum to meet the unique needs of these students.

Iowa Area Education Agencies (AEA) Hearing Services offer support for students from birth to age 21 who are deaf or hard of hearing. The AEAs provide specialized instruction, evaluations, and consultations to ensure that students receive the appropriate accommodations and support in educational settings.

Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Program is a statewide initiative that ensures early detection of hearing loss in newborns and young children. The program also provides access to funding for hearing aids and audiological services for children in need.

These services are vital for supporting the hearing needs of Iowans with disabilities, offering a range of resources from early intervention to educational support and beyond.

Iowa Department of Education – Speech-Language Services provides statewide support through Area Education Agencies (AEAs) to deliver speech-language pathology services to children and students from birth to 21 years of age. These services focus on helping students with communication needs, including articulation, language, voice, and fluency disorders.

Iowa Area Education Agencies (AEA) – Speech-Language Services offer specialized speech-language pathology services across Iowa’s school districts, addressing the diverse communication needs of students with disabilities. AEAs provide evaluation, intervention, and support to ensure students receive the necessary speech and language services within the educational setting.

Center for Disabilities and Development at the University of Iowa offers comprehensive speech-language therapy services for individuals with disabilities. Their team of speech-language pathologists works with both children and adults to improve communication skills, providing personalized therapy plans that cater to each individual’s unique needs.

These organizations provide critical speech and language services, ensuring that individuals with disabilities in Iowa receive the necessary support to enhance their communication abilities and overall quality of life.

ChildServe Autism Program provides a range of services tailored to children and young adults with autism, including an Autism Day Program, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), diagnostic clinics, and life skills programming. The program focuses on helping individuals with autism develop independence and social skills through personalized, evidence-based treatments.

University of Iowa Health Care – Autism Center offers comprehensive care for children with autism, including diagnostic services, behavior assessments, early intervention, and ongoing management of associated conditions. The center also provides support for families and connections to community resources.

Regional Autism Assistance Program (RAP) through the Child Health Specialty Clinics, provides community-based clinical consultation, care planning, and family support for children with autism. RAP teams work closely with families to help them access the services they need and provide training for early intervention providers.

Autism Society of Iowa is a statewide organization dedicated to supporting individuals with autism and their families through advocacy, community programming, and resources. They offer various support services, including scholarships, events, and connections to local resources.

These organizations provide crucial support and resources to individuals with autism and their families across Iowa, helping them navigate the challenges associated with autism spectrum disorder and improving their quality of life.