Each October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) celebrates the contributions of individuals with disabilities and the programs that support their success in today’s workforce.
Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) and its Vocational Rehabilitation Services Division will mark the month with events, webinars, and success stories highlighting employers who help Iowans with disabilities achieve meaningful, long-term employment. Here are some key activities planned for NDEAM in Iowa this October.
Check out the information below on the various NDEAM activities and employment opportunities happening next month!
Employer Recognition Awards (Nominations Accepted Through October 8, 2026)
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Nominations for the Employer Recognition Awards have been extended through October 8, 2026. Thank you for your participation as we work to honor businesses across Iowa!
Recognizes employers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to supporting the disability community. This may include proactive & inclusive talent acquisition practices, meaningful community involvement, or implementing effective workplace supports that empower individuals with disabilities to succeed.
Honors businesses that demonstrate strong partnership and engagement with Vocational Rehabilitation or Iowa Department for the Blind. These employers show commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities through collaborative efforts, innovative practices, and leadership that strengthens VR’s mission in helping people achieve successful employment outcomes.
Honors a business that has demonstrated exceptional creativity in hiring, retaining and recruiting individuals with disabilities, going beyond traditional practices to foster an inclusive workforce.
Recognizing a newly established business partner that has recently begun collaborating with Workforce Partnerships and has already demonstrated strong progress in supporting individuals in the workplace.
NDEAM Webinar Series (Beginning September 30, 2026)
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A webinar series is taking place to highlight the many different ways to create successful employment opportunities for Iowans with disabilities! You can view the topics and register for the series below.
Learn from Iowa businesses who will share real-world insights on how valuing the talents of people with disabilities strengthens retention, enhances workplace culture, and benefits businesses across the state.
Local IowaWORKS offices and partners will be hosting events across the state related to disability employment. Contact your local IowaWORKS office to learn more or connect with staff who are assisting Iowans with disabilities find employment.
Connect with a VR office today by selecting the link below to bring up its information. You can also sort by county.
Data: Serving Iowans with Disabilities (Program Year 2025)
1,586
Number of Iowans with disabilities that obtained employment with the support of Vocational Rehabilitation Services.
$22.7M
Estimated growth in wages (millions) earned by VR job candidates who successfully found work during the program year.
98.4%
Percentage of successful VR job candidates who have remained working and living in Iowa.
Stay tuned to this page for additional updates, success stories, and more as we work to celebrate the employment opportunities for Iowans with disabilities!
