Iowa was one of 14 states awarded with a five-year Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) Grant intended to help improve the employment outcomes of Iowans with disabilities. The federal funding award of $13,875,048.55 is being utilized to spur efforts across the state that expand support and create innovative approaches to employment.
The title of the state's initiative, Iowa Blueprint for Change (IBC), is focused on advancing and improving systems that help Iowans with disabilities move from subminimum wage to competitive integrated employment (CIE).
IBC Goals and Objectives
- Maintain a collective of diverse stakeholders to develop and implement systems change models for Iowans with disabilities at subminimum wage to achieve competitive integrated employment (CIE). The collective will adapt based on stakeholder input and the needs of those served, ensuring a sustainable path to CIE.
- Implement and maintain the established Registered Apprenticeship for Direct Support Employment Specialists. Additionally, establish a quality pre-apprenticeship program in partnership with local community school districts and post-secondary institutions to prepare individuals for success in the apprenticeship.
- Increase ongoing delivery of preparation, placement and support services that begin in early high school and result in uninterrupted transition to CIE for youth with disabilities.
- Promote greater access for Iowans with disabilities to secure and sustain competitive integrated employment that fosters economic stability.
- Align public policies, funding, and practices that support CIE as the first and preferred outcome for all Iowans with disabilities, while collaborating with additional agencies to enhance service delivery and support.
- Establish an IVRS case management system that improves communication with IBC participants while simultaneously improving collaboration, communication, and deliverables with Community Rehabilitation Providers.