Partner Guest Article: Easterseals Iowa
Easterseals Iowa has been providing exceptional services for over 90 years. Our mission is to ensure that all people with disabilities or special needs, and...
Read moreMake Your Mark! Conference 2021: “Be a Game Changer!”
This year will mark the seventh annual Iowans with Disabilities in Action Make Your Mark! Conference. The last six conferences brought together Iowans with...
Read moreDD Council Member Spotlight: Carol Cross
As a parent of a daughter with physical disabilities, I spend a good amount of time advocating for her. We almost daily meet with challenges for accessibility...
Read moreDevelopmental Disabilities Awareness Month - “Moving Towards Change: A Virtual Celebration"
March is National Developmental Disability Awareness Month. The purpose of National Developmental Disability Awareness Month is to raise awareness about...
Read moreIowa DD Council Releases 5-Year State Plan
We believe all Iowans with disabilities, as well as their families, should be included in the communities where they choose to live. To achieve this...
Read moreSpecial COVID-19 Payments and Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS THE SPECIAL PAYMENT I AM RECEIVING? The federal government approved special payments to spend any way you want to help the country during the...
Read moreIowa DD Council Virtual Legislative Town Hall Meetings
The Iowa DD Council is partnering with self-advocates to reach out virtually to legislators, provide an opportunity to connect with local DD Council...
Read moreIowa DD Council Hosts Capitol Chats
In 2020, we held monthly calls during session to give advocates an extra opportunity to find out what's going on and get advice from lobbyists...
Read moreFive Iowa Developmental Disability Transportation Grants Awarded
AMES, Iowa – Feb. 24, 2021 – The Iowa Department of Transportation has awarded a total of $113,330 in Iowa Developmental Disability Transportation Grants to five Iowa public...
Read moreChasing Happiness: Guest Article from Community Living Ambassador Michael Gillette
Let’s talk about being disabled. I wasn’t born with a disability. I gained that in my early 20s, and since then it’s been a rocky path. I suffered a traumatic brain injury, meaning I had to learn how to walk again, basically...
Read moreNational Disability Employment Awareness Month Virtual Event
In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council and Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services facilitated...
Read moreAmber Gale: Iowa DD Council Member Spotlight
My four-year-old son, AJ, does the best Cookie Monster impersonations and just happens to have Down syndrome. He was also born with a congenital heart defect,...
Read moreBrady Werger: Community Living Ambassador Feature
“Hi, my name is Brady Werger. I am 28 years old and live in a waiver home in Glenwood, IA. I came to live at the Glenwood Resource Center, an intermediate...
Read moreCOVID Recovery Iowa
Do you have feelings of anxiety, loneliness, frustration or loss? COVID Recovery Iowa can help. We are here to listen and offer support to people...
Read moreMake Your Mark! 2020 Virtual Conference Recap
Thank you for joining us for the Make Your Mark! 2020 Virtual Conference brought to you via Zoom webinar. Sessions this year focused on developing...
Read moreLegislative Town Hall Meetings
The Iowa DD Council wants to hold a virtual townhall meeting in your area! This legislative session, we will look to host and participate in virtual...
Read morePartner Guest Article: Iowa Department on Aging
The Office of Public Guardian is a state government program. It is part of the Iowa Department on Aging. The Iowa Department on Aging supports accessible, integrated services to older adults, adults with disabilities and...
Read moreMake Your Mark! Conference 2020: “Your Vision for the Future!”
Join us for the VIRTUAL 2020 Make Your Mark! Self-Advocacy Conference September 1, 2020 – October 2, 2020. Sessions this year are focused on developing...
Read moreDD Council Member Spotlight: Mark Smith
Mark Smith lives in Bettendorf, Iowa, with his wife Vinnie, who is a third-grade teacher. Mark has two sons, Peter (31) and Patrick (26). “I am honored to join the...
Read moreVoter Training and Education Grant Opportunities
Iowans with Disabilities in Action, a project of the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council, offers statewide trainings to educate Iowans with...
Read morePartner Guest Article: Iowa Compass
Iowa Compass provides information and referral services to all Iowans with disabilities and complex health conditions. We are based at the University of Iowa...
Read moreMake Your Mark! Conference 2020: “Your Vision for the Future!”
This year will mark the sixth annual Iowans with Disabilities in Action Make Your Mark! Conference. The last five conferences brought Iowans with...
Read moreDD Council Member Spotlight: Hugh Kelly
I have been a member of the DD Council since 2016. I found out about the DD Council from Rik Shannon, the Council's public policy manager at the time,...
Read moreNAMI Resources on Social Isolation: What You Can Do
It’s common to feel stressed or anxious during this time. It may be especially hard for people who already manage feelings of anxiety or emotional distress....
Read moreSpecial COVID Payments
WHAT IS THE SPECIAL PAYMENT I AM RECEIVING? The federal government approved a special payment to people to spend any way you want to help the country during the...
Read moreLook Out for Your Absentee Ballot Request Form in the Mail!
Secretary Pate is encouraging Iowans to vote by mail in the June 2 primary to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID-19. If you...
Read moreNAMI COVID-19 Resource And Information Guide
Click "View Attached PDF" by the Article Headline to View Entire Document. NAMI released the NAMI COVID-19 Resource and Information Guide to...
Read moreImpact on Disability Community: CARES Act and Family First Response Act
Click "View Attached PDF" by the Article Headline to View Entire Document. On Friday, March 27, President Trump signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief...
Read more"DD Council News" More articles » Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) - Information Pac
Download an information packet below developed by and for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. What's inside:• What is COVID-19?• How do you get it?• What...
Read moreDisability Rights Iowa Protects and Advocates for the Rights of Iowans with Disabilies
Disability Rights Iowa is a non-profit law center that protects and advocates for the rights of Iowans of all ages with disabilities, including Iowans with mental illness....
Read moreDisability Benefits Learning Sessions
Anthem, along with Iowa Able Foundation, Amerigroup and Disability Rights Iowa, is hosting Disability Benefits Learning Sessions in Ames (May 16), Des Moines...
Read moreWe Want to Hear from You! Iowa DD Council's State Plan Survey
Every five years our Council writes a State Plan. It describes what we will do and how much money we may spend. We get our money from the federal...
Read more50 People for 50 Years Campaign
In 2020, the Iowa DD Council is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (DD Act). The...
Read more"Spirit of Inclusion!" Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
March 1 marks the first day of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM). The Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council, in partnership with Iowans with...
Read moreMake Your Mark! Conference: Your Vision for the Future
Save the date. We are excited to announce this year’s Make Your Mark! Conference theme: Your Vision for the Future. Look for registration to open...
Read moreBrady Werger, New Iowa DD Council Member Spotlight
Each year, the governor appoints individuals to serve on the Developmental Disabilities Council. Each person selected serves a three-year term on the...
Read more2019 Iowa DD Council Annual Report
Please view the 2019 Iowa DD Council Annual Report HERE.
Read moreCOVID-19 Information By and For People with Disabilities
Click "View Attached PDF" located above the article title to download an information packet developed by and for people with intellectual...
Read moreGiving Iowans with Disabilities a Voice in Caucuses
DES MOINES, Iowa – In less than two months, Iowans will get their say in the presidential nominating process.As the caucuses draw closer, two...
Read moreIowa Caucus Training Webinar and Caucus Guide
Des Moines, Iowa — The Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council, InfoNET and the Iowans with Disabilities in Action project are excited to announce a webinar...
Read morePartner Guest Article // Iowa Able Foundation
When Anna Magnusson was interviewing to serve as Iowa Able Foundation’s executive director in 2018, she read the story of Aidan and his mother. Aidan has...
Read moreState Sweep Visits
Iowans with Disabilities in Action is hitting the road and hoping to visit all 99 counties in Iowa over the next two years. Unfortunately,...
Read more2019 Make Your Mark! Conference Recap
Thank you for joining us for the 2019 Make Your Mark! Conference in Coralville, Iowa. Sessions this year focused on developing leadership...
Read moreNew DD Council Member Spotlight
Each year, the governor appoints individuals to serve on the Developmental Disabilities Council. Each person selected serves a three-year term on the...
Read moreLocal Capitol Days & Grant Opportunities
Iowans with Disabilities in Action will provide eight Capitol Day grants up to $500 each for advocacy training and support to local advocacy groups who are interested...
Read moreTake Your Legislator to Work Campaign
Take Action. Be Heard. Create Change. October was National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and throughout the month, Iowans...
Read moreEpilepsy Foundation Iowa - Guest Article
The Epilepsy Foundation is the leading national voluntary health organization that speaks on behalf of the at least 3.4 million Americans with epilepsy...
Read more2019 MAKE YOUR MARK! CONFERENCE: LEADING THE WAY
Join us for the 2019 Make Your Mark! Conference. Sessions this year are focused on developing your leadership skills. We are excited to offer FREE registration for...
Read moreDD COUNCIL MEMBER SPOTLIGHT // NEW COUNCIL MEMBER — ROB ROOZEBOOM
The Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council is a federally funded state agency that advocates for the creation of services and supports that allow Iowans with developmental...
Read moreAMERIGROUP – Supports Self-Advocacy
Want to learn how to speak up for yourself? Learn about keeping a job? Know more about your rights as a person with disabilities? There are organizations in...
Read moreTAKE YOUR LEGISLATOR TO WORK CAMPAIGN
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month and throughout the month, Iowans with Disabilities in Action will conduct the Take your...
Read moreREV UP for National Disability Voter Registration Week
Des Moines, Iowa – July 15-19, 2019, is National Disability Voter Registration Week, a national effort to make the disability vote more influential. The...
Read moreBEST BUDDIES IOWA
Anthony Kennedy Shriver founded Best Buddies in 1989 after noticing the unjustified lack of opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental...
Read moreINTELLIGENT LIVES RECAP // STATE SWEEP PREVIEW
On Tuesday, April 30, 2019, Drake University’s Disability Action and Awareness Community partnered with Iowans with Disabilities in Action and the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council to offer...
Read more2019 MAKE YOUR MARK! CONFERENCE: LEADING THE WAY // EXHIBITORS AND SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION
Attention: Exhibitors! We have started planning for our 2019 Make Your Mark! Conference taking place in Coralville, Iowa. The Iowans with Disabilities...
Read moreADVOCATING FOR CHANGE DAY RECAP
Advocating for Change Day took place April 10, 2019. This event provides tips and strategies for the best ways to contact your legislators while you are at...
Read moreAPPLY TO JOIN THE DD COUNCIL
The Iowa DD Council has openings they would like to fill with Iowans who have a developmental disability. The DD Council promotes the development...
Read moreFilm challenges IQ testing, limits placed on people with intellectual disabilities
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Lane Till lane@capturemarketinggroup.com Office: 515-423-0992 Cell: 515-230-8851 Press kit:...
Read moreMarch is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Lane Till lane@capturemarketinggroup.com Office: 515-423-0992 Cell: 515-230-8851 March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness...
Read moreAutism Society of Iowa
On November 13, 1978, the Iowa Charter with the National Society for Autistic Children was signed, and a grassroots support group for those with...
Read more2019 March Awareness Month
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and ID Action needs your voice to help us raise awareness. You have an opportunity to make an impact in...
Read more2019 Advocating for Change Day
The Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council and Iowans with Disabilities in Action invite you to join us for Advocating for Change Day. This...
Read more2019 infoNET
Are you signed up to receive our public policy publication? If not, now is a great time. The 2019 legislative session is underway and a lot is happening. infoNET is...
Read more2019 Make Your Mark! Conference
This conference will help those who want to be more involved get started and those who are already active to continue to develop their skills. We...
Read moreState Sweep
Have your heard about our plans to visit all 99 counties in Iowa? Too often state-level organizations are perceived as inaccessible to those living...
Read more2019 Local Capitol Days
Iowans with Disabilities in Action will provide eight Capitol Day grants up to $500 each for advocacy training and support to local advocacy groups who are...
Read moreIowa DD Council Offering Grants to Support Iowans with Disabilities to Attend Statewide Conferences
The Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council (DD Council) works to connect Iowans with a developmental disability and their family members with the...
Read moreState Sweep
Iowans with Disabilities in Action is hitting the road and will visit all 99 counties in Iowa over the next two years. We plan to visit communities throughout...
Read moreSAVE THE DATE! We are Heading Back to Coralville
Are you ready for another great Make Your Mark! Conference? We are excited to announce that the Make Your Mark! Conference will be returning to the...
Read moreGetting Ready for Session - 2019
Getting Ready for Session The 2019 legislative session is scheduled to begin on January 14, 2019. Here are a few ways that you can get ready and be prepared to...
Read moreAdvocating for Change Day
Advocating for Change Day Join us for the 2019 Advocating for Change Day on April 10, 2019. Before heading up to the Capitol to meet with your legislators,...
Read moreLocal Capitol Day Grants - 2019
Iowans with Disabilities in Action will provide eight Capitol Day grants up to $500 each for advocacy training and support to local advocacy groups who are...
Read more2018 MID-TERM ELECTION
The 2018 mid-term elections will be held on Tuesday, November 6. Iowans with Disabilities in Action has partnered for many years with the Iowa secretary of state’s...
Read moreAMERICA’S WORKFORCE: EMPOWERING ALL
On October 4, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation declaring October National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The purpose is to increase...
Read moreMAKE YOUR MARK! CONFERENCE - RECAP
Our annual Make Your Mark! Conference took place September 27-28 at Honey Creek Resort in Moravia, Iowa. We were excited to welcome more than 150 participants to...
Read moreAPPLY TO JOIN THE DD COUNCIL
The Iowa DD Council has openings they would like to fill with Iowans who have a developmental disability. The DD Council promotes the development...
Read moreMARK IT ON YOUR CALENDAR
Mark it on Your Calendar November 6, 2018 - Election DayJanuary 14, 2019 - First Day of the 88th Iowa General Assembly - Legislative SessionApril 10,...
Read moreIowans with Disabilities in Action Join Broad Effort to Observe National Disability Employment Aware
(Des Moines, IA) — October 1, 2018 — Iowans with Disabilities in Action today announced its participation in National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an...
Read moreIowa Able Foundation Offers FREE Cents & Sensibility Class
With sponsorship from the Enhance Hamilton County Foundation and FirstState Bank, the Iowa Able Foundation is proud to present a FREE financial literacy...
Read moreIowans with Disabilities in Action Announces Rebrand
For Immediate Release Iowans with Disabilities in Action Announces Rebrand Des Moines, Iowa – June 28, 2018 – Iowans with Disabilities in Action, a project of Iowa...
Read moreWe’d Like to Introduce You to Our New Look!
Welcome to the new Iowans with Disabilities in Action. After 16 years, we decided it was time for a new look, so we took off on a rebranding journey to...
Read moreIDDC Names New Executive Director
The Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council is happy to announce Brooke Lovelace Hundling will be joining the Council as executive director. Lovelace comes to the Iowa DD...
Read moreIt’s Time to REV UP!
National Disability Voter Registration Week is coming up July 16-20. This is a national effort to make the DISABILITY VOTE more influential. This...
Read more2018 Make Your Mark! Conference
We are excited to return to Honey Creek Resort for the 2018 Make Your Mark! Conference, our annual self-advocacy conference for Iowans with...
Read moreState Sweep
Iowans with Disabilities in Action is hitting the road and will visit all 99 counties in Iowa over the next two years. We will visit communities...
Read moreMark it on Your Calendar
July 5, 2018 — MYM Registration Opens July 16-20, 2018 — National Disability Voter Registration Week August 11, 2018 — MYM Room Block Reservation...
Read moreBrooke Lovelace Hundling Named Executive Director of the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Lane Till lane@capturemarketinggroup.com Office: 515-423-0992 Cell: 515-230-8851 Brooke Lovelace Hundling Named Executive Director of the Iowa...
Read moreAutism Awareness Month: Barefoot for Autism
Guest article by Kris Steinmetz, Autism Society of Iowa executive director Children and adults with autism can have a reaction to...
Read moreCapitol Days
Last month, individuals from the Iowa Family Leadership Training Institute and Child Health Specialty Clinics Family Advisory Council took to the Iowa State Capitol for...
Read moreVote Grant Deadline Extended!
Take Action. Be Heard. Create Change. We have extended the deadline for ID Action Voter Education Grant applications to Monday, April 16. The grant...
Read moreDevelopmental Disabilities Awareness Month
March is nationally recognized as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. The month is devoted to raising the public’s awareness of developmental...
Read moreSAVE THE DATE!
Are you ready for another great Make Your Mark! Conference? We are excited to announce that the Make Your Mark! Conference will be...
Read morePersevering for Advocacy
When Amanda Devereaux and her husband found out their second child was going to be born with a preventable disability, they started...
Read morePolicy in Session Campaign
On January 8, a new legislative session starts in Iowa. ID Action wants to make sure you’re prepared. We’re kicking off the legislative session with a...
Read moreCapitol Day Grants
If you would like to meet with your legislators in Des Moines during the upcoming legislative session, consider applying for ID Action’s Capitol Day...
Read moreShare Your Story!
Your experiences are valuable. ID Action regularly shares the stories of Iowans with disabilities with our newsletter subscribers, social media...
Read moreGet Involved in Your Community!
If you want to get involved in your community, volunteering offers endless opportunities. Get started by finding a cause or organization that matters to...
Read moreVoter ID cards being mailed to registered voters without driver's licenses, non-driver ID's
Secretary Pate begins mailing Voter ID cards to registered voters without driver's licenses, non-driver ID's DES MOINES – Iowa Secretary of State Paul...
Read more2017 Make Your Mark Conference
Our annual Make Your Mark! Conference took place September 20-22 at the Honey Creek Resort in Moravia, Iowa. We were excited to welcome more than 70...
Read moreNational Voter Registration Day
Every September, organizations around the U.S. host voter registration drives and educational events in honor of National Voter Registration Day. ID...
Read morePrepare for a New Legislative Session
The Iowa Legislature will reconvene in January 2018, and ID Action has information you can use to get ready. ID Action Advocacy ToolkitFind out how to...
Read moreTake Action in Your Community
ID Action exists to help Iowans with disabilities connect with civic and political opportunities in their communities. If you’re looking to get more...
Read moreShare Your Story
Do you volunteer with an advocacy group or a community organization? Have you overcome barriers or obstacles in your life? Do you have a positive...
Read moreIowa gets new Medicaid Director, Michael Randol, from previous MCO run state
The Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) announced Friday that Michael Randol has been appointed director of the Iowa Medicaid Enterprise (IME). In...
Read moreID Action supports National Disability Employment Awareness Month
MEDIA CONTACT: Lane Till, Capture Marketing lane@capturemarketinggroup.com 515-423-0992 (office)515-230-8851 (mobile) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE “Inclusion Drives...
Read moreID Action supports National Disability Employment Awareness Month
MEDIA CONTACT: Lane Till, Capture Marketing lane@capturemarketinggroup.com 515-423-0992 (office)515-230-8851 (mobile) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE “Inclusion Drives...
Read moreID Action supports National Disability Employment Awareness Month
MEDIA CONTACT: Lane Till, Capture Marketing lane@capturemarketinggroup.com 515-423-0992 (office)515-230-8851 (mobile) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE “Inclusion Drives...
Read moreID Action supports National Disability Employment Awareness Month
MEDIA CONTACT: Lane Till, Capture Marketing lane@capturemarketinggroup.com 515-423-0992 (office)515-230-8851 (mobile) FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE “Inclusion Drives...
Read moreTake Action! Healthcare Bills Prepared for Vote
The Senate’s “Better Care Reconciliation Act” (BCRA) and a new bill, the "Obama Repeal Reconciliation Act" (ORRA), are being prepared for a vote next week. It...
Read moreNational Disability Voter Registration Week
National Disability Voter Registration Week is July 17-21. As a part of this important week, ID Action wants to visit YOUR community to register voters with...
Read moreLarge Print Voter Registration Form Available
DES MOINES – Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate announces the creation of a new, large print voter registration form to assist Iowans with low vision...
Read moreMake Your Mark! Conference
Change. It seems to be the one constant in life. Learn how you can prepare for and be a part of the changes that are happening in your life...
Read moreREV UP: Register, Educate, Vote, Use your Power
National Disability Voter Registration Week is July 17-21, and ID Action wants to host an event in your community. The REV UP campaign...
Read moreAdvocating for Change Day
On April 5, 2017, 266 Iowans with disabilities and advocates visited the Iowa State Capitol for Advocating for Change Day. Participants kicked off the day...
Read moreChange and Action Campaign
Are you involved in your community? Do you have opinions about the changes in healthcare or government? Do you take action and speak up...
Read moreLifetime Achievement Awards
ID Action was pleased to award not one but two Lifetime Achievement Awards this year. This year’s award winners are well-deserving...
Read moreSenate Action on Repeal of the Affordable Care Act
As you have probably heard, the US Senate is planning to move forward to repeal and replace the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA)...
Read more2017 ID Action Lifetime Achievement Awards
Cherie Clark and Becky Harker selected for the 2017 ID Action Lifetime Achievement Award Des Moines, IA – Iowans with Disabilities in Action (ID Action) has selected...
Read moreMarch is DD Awareness Month - Life Side by Side
In March, we celebrate and raise awareness of the many contributions those with developmental disabilities make in communities throughout Iowa....
Read moreAdvocating for Change Day - Join us and learn how you can make a difference!
The Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council, ID Action and Polk County Health Services invite you to join us for Advocating for Change Day...
Read more2017 Make Your Mark! Conference
Mark your calendars now to save the date for the 2017 Make Your Mark! Conference. We are excited to announce that this year’s conference...
Read moreAdvocacy Resource
infoNET Bill TrackerThe infoNET bill tracker helps you watch some of the bills Iowa legislators are considering this year. We do not track all bills...
Read moreShare Your Story with Us
ID Action loves to hear from you! We want to fill our Facebook page and website with stories about you and other Iowans who are making a difference in...
Read moreVolunteering
Volunteering is a great way to become active in your community, but sometimes getting started can be scary. Here are a few tips to help you get...
Read moreAdvocating for Change Day
Join us for the 2017 Advocating for Change Day on April 5, 2017. Before heading up to the Capitol to meet with your legislators, you will have...
Read moreinfoNET
The 2017 legislative session will begin on January 9. You can stay up-to-date on the issues with infoNET, Iowa’s disability policy resource. It is a free...
Read moreGrassroots Action Center
ID Action’s public policy publication, infoNET, provides you with an easy way to connect with your legislators through the Grassroots Advocacy Center. You do...
Read moreAdvocacy Tool - Message Worksheet
Need help telling your story and crafting your message? At ID Action we talk all the time about how important it is to effectively tell your story and...
Read more2017 Make Your Mark! Conference
Mark your calendars now to save the date for the 2017 Make Your Mark! Conference. We are excited to announce that next year’s conference...
Read moreWe Want You!
Do you or someone you know have a story you would like to share? We are looking for individuals with disabilities who would be willing to share their...
Read moreLegislative Advocacy: What now?
Now that the election is over, have you found yourself wondering what you can do? The good news is your work as an advocate doesn’t have to come to an end,...
Read moreThe Election is Over. Now What?
The election might be over, but our work as advocates is just getting started. There will be a lot of new faces in the Iowa Legislature next year, and this...
Read moreAdvocacy Resources
As you continue your advocacy work, here are a few resources you can use. Advocacy toolkit — ID Action has put together a toolkit to help you prepare to...
Read moreNational Disability Employment Awareness Month
October was National Disability Employment Awareness Month. This annual recognition celebrates the contributions individuals with disabilities bring to the workplace and spreads...
Read moreAdvocating for Change Day
SAVE THE DATE! Wednesday, April 5, 2017 Mark your calendars today for the next Advocating for Change Day! Watch our website, social media and...
Read moreMake Your Mark! Conference
Our annual Make Your Mark! Conference took place October 4-7 at Honey Creek Resort and was a great success. With more than 100 people in attendance, we saw...
Read moreLocal Capitol Day Grants
Are you part of an advocacy group that would like to visit the Iowa State Capitol to talk with your legislators? ID Action is offering Local Capitol Day...
Read moreHugh Kelly Joins Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council Leadership Position
DES MOINES, Iowa, (September 20, 2016) – Iowa Governor Terry Branstad recently announced new appointments to the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council...
Read moreJason Goulden Joins Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council Leadership Position
DES MOINES, Iowa, (September 20, 2016) – Iowa Governor Terry Branstad recently announced new appointments to the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council...
Read moreMark Schneider Joins Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council Leadership Position
DES MOINES, Iowa, (September 20, 2016) – Iowa Governor Terry Branstad recently announced new appointments to the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council (DD...
Read moreCharity Hodson - NDEAM
As we continue with National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we would like to share Charity's story with you. Charity began her journey with...
Read moreSteven Acklin - NDEAM | Part 2
As we continue to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month, it's important to recognize the impact of hiring someone with a disability....
Read moreNational Disability Employment Awareness Month - Steven's Story
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. ID Action recently met with Steven Acklin from Cedar Falls, Iowa. Steven recently took a...
Read moreMake Your Mark! Conference
2016 Make Your Mark! ConferenceOctober 5-7, 2016Honey Creek Resort12633 Resort Dr, Moravia, IA 52571 Preparation....
Read moreMake Your Mark! Conference Sessions
(Sessions are subject to change, and additional sessions will be added as they are confirmed.) Taking Charge in a Managed Care World Do you want to know more about how the...
Read moreVoter Training in Your Community and Voter Grants
The 2016 general election will be here before we know it, and it is time to start preparing now. ID Action offers a voter training to inform and educate Iowans...
Read moreNew Accessible Technology Section Added to ADA.gov
The Department of Justice has launched a new Accessible Technology section for ADA.gov, its Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Web site, to further assist...
Read more2016 Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
In March, we celebrate and raise awareness of the many contributions those with developmental disabilities make in communities throughout Iowa. As the...
Read moreID Action Local Capitol Day
On March 9, ID Action spent the day at the Capitol with an advocacy group from the Clarion area. They traveled to Des Moines to attend an advocacy...
Read moreMake Your Mark! Conference
2016 Make Your Mark! ConferenceOctober 5-7, 2016Honey Creek Resort 12633 Resort Dr, Moravia, IA 52571 Preparation. Participation. Power.Mark your calendar...
Read moreDD Awareness Month
In the 1987 proclamation declaring March as National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, President Ronald Reagan stated, “I invite all individuals, agencies, and...
Read moreJeff Schmidt - DD Awareness
Whether it's working at Hy-Vee, raising money for the Variety Club, planning and participating in the Youth Leadership Forum or volunteering at the...
Read moreSpecial Olympics - Spread the Word to End the Word
On March 1, 2016, athletes from Special Olympics Iowa raised awareness of the hurtful impact of the R-word and asked others to pledge to eliminate the word from their...
Read moreChris Evans - DD Awareness
Chris Evans is a junior at Grand View University in Des Moines, Iowa. He wanted to get to know others in the Grand View community, so he started going...
Read moreAnnouncement from Iowa Department of Human Services: Medicaid Special Announcement
UPDATES REGARDING CMS APPROVAL Find the Governor's news release here. Read the Letter from Iowa Medicaid Director Mikki Stier here. Read the Letter from CMS...
Read moreGuide to the 2016 Iowa Caucuses - " What Will You Say?
Are you ready? The 2016 Iowa caucuses are just over a month away, and the nation is waiting to find out who Iowans will support in both the Democratic and Republican...
Read more2015 Make Your Mark! Conference
More than 120 Iowans attended the ID Action Make Your Mark! Conference and are now ready to make an impact in their communities. Attendees went to...
Read moreHow Will You Make Your Mark?
Attendees at the 2015 Make Your Mark! Conference had the opportunity to share how they plan to make their mark in their communities when they leave the conference. Here is what they...
Read moreGrassroots Action Center
ID Action’s public policy publication, infoNET, has added a new tool to your advocacy toolbox — the Grassroots Action Center. You do not need to know...
Read moreGet Ready for the 2016 Legislative Session
Grassroots Action Center ID Action’s public policy publication, infoNET, has added a new tool to your advocacy toolbox — the Grassroots Action Center. You do not need...
Read moreLocal Capitol Days
Are you part of an advocacy group that would like to visit the Iowa State Capitol to talk with your legislators? ID Action is offering Local Capitol Day...
Read moreTyler Gerdts' Story
Tyler Gerdts is a junior at West High School in Davenport, Iowa, and participates on the school's cross country team with his service dog, Hugo. “I’ve been...
Read moreDevin's Story - National Disability Employment Awareness Month
ID Action recently met with Devin Lile from Johnston, Iowa. Devin shared with us about working at Unity Point—Methodist Hospital, how he got there and...
Read moreJoel & Neal's Story - National Disability Employment Awareness Month
ID Action recently met with Joel and Neal Rydberg from Des Moines, Iowa. Joel and Neal shared with us why employment was important to them and what...
Read moreKyle's Story - Disability Employment Awareness Month
ID Action recently met with Kyle Stumpf from Dubuque, Iowa. Kyle shared with us what working at Papa John's has done for him. Watch Kyle's video to...
Read moreMarissa's Story - Disability Employment Awareness Month
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. ID Action recently met with Marissa Schletzbaum from Pleasantville, Iowa. Marissa talked...
Read moreID Action 2014-2015 Annual Report
ID Action is pleased to present its 2014-2015 Annual Report. To view this report click here.
Read more2015 Make Your Mark! Conference
ID Action is excited to host its second Make Your Mark! Self-Advocacy Conference October 7-9, 2015 at the Coralville Marriott in Coralville, IA. Register by...
Read moreMake Your Mark Conference!
The 2015 Make Your Mark! Conference will offer a series of sessions to help Iowans with disabilities build their leadership, storytelling and advocacy...
Read more2016 Iowa Caucus
In early 2016, Iowans will be in the process of nominating candidates to run in the 2016 general election for president of the United States. Instead of going...
Read moreMake Your Mark! Video Contest
ID Action is pleased to host our first Make Your Mark! Video Contest! The contest is a chance for Iowans with disabilities to show others around the state how they...
Read moreExhibit or Sponsor at the Make Your Mark! Conference
Do you want Iowans throughout the state to take advantage of your resources and information? We know you do, so take advantage of the opportunity to...
Read moreADA for You
Learn how to make the ADA work for you. Know your rights under the ADA, learn common-sense approaches to what the ADA does for people with...
Read moreDHS Announces Dates for Upcoming Federal Waiver Public Meetings
The Iowa Department of Human Services is announcing the dates of four public meetings regarding the Iowa High Quality Health Care Initiative (Medicaid...
Read moreA Golden Anniversary for America's Health
Many people with disabilities use Medicare and/or Medicaid services for their healthcare and community living. In 1965, President Johnson signed...
Read moreTammy Nyden Named 2014 ID Action Advocate of the Year
ID Action was proud to name Tammy Nyden, Iowa City, IA, as the 2014 Advocate of Year. The Advocate of the Year award is presented each year to an...
Read moreJoin us at the 2015 ID Action Self-Advocacy Conference in October!
ID Action is excited to continue the success of our inaugural conference with a second Make Your Mark! Conference October 7-9, 2015 at the Coralville...
Read moreDo you want to make an Impact? Consider joining the DD Council.
The Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council (DD Council) is looking for individuals to join the council. Do you the following describe you? Are...
Read moreDisability.gov Resources
Disability.gov had a number of resources for you. Click here for information about your rights as an individual with a disability or as a parent of a...
Read moreIowa Seeks Inclusion for Developmental Disabilities Month
Iowa Seeks Inclusion for Developmental Disabilities Month March 27, 2015 - John Michaelson, Public News Service (IA) Play Audio in Browser...
Read moreAdam Reynolds' Story - Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Our video this week comes from a familiar face, Adam Reynolds of Des Moines. Adam lives in the East Village and is an active member of his community....
Read moreDan Dague's Story - Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Since its spring break this week, we are sharing a video from last year with you. The third video in our series for Developmental Disabilities...
Read moreWords Matter Eliminate Labels
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Words Matter – Eliminate Labels Our words and the meanings we attach to them create attitudes, drive...
Read moreFaith groups celebrate 25 years of the Americans with Disabilities Act
An American Baptist leader says this summer’s 25th anniversary of President George H.W. Bush signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act provides an...
Read moreU.S. Department of Labor Releases February Unemployment Rate for People with Disabilities
U.S. Department of Labor Releases February Unemployment Rate for People with Disabilities On March 6, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Bureau of Labor...
Read moreTicket to Work Program to Hold Webinar and Introduces Redesigned Website
Social Security Ticket to Work Program to Hold Webinar On March 25, 2015 from 3-4:30 pm EST, the Social Security Ticket to Work program will hold a webinar...
Read moreBureau of Engraving and Printing Distributes Free Currency Reader
Bureau of Engraving and Printing Distributes Free Currency Reader The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) is distributing a free currency...
Read moreDepartment of Justice Unveils New On-line Americans with Disabilities Act Complaint Form
The Department of Justice is pleased to announce that, as of today, individuals wishing to file ADA complaints with the Department will be able to...
Read moreIowa International Center's Free Emergency Interpretation Services
The Iowa International Center offers free interpretation services for emergency situations. These services are offered for limited English proficient...
Read moreJoint guidance on effective communication for students with disabilities in public schools issued
The U.S. Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division together with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights and Office of Special...
Read moreABLE Act: Allowing Iowans with Disabilities to Save
A common barrier to financial stability for individuals with disabilities is on its way out with Congressional approval of the Achieving a Better Life...
Read moreTax Highlights for Persons with Disabilities
Tax Highlights for Persons with Disabilities By now you've received your W2 and other tax documents. And, if you are like most taxpayers with and...
Read moreAdvocating for Change Day - Join us and learn how you can make a difference!
Join us for the 2015 Advocating for Change Day on April 22, 2015. At a special training session you can learn how to effectively develop and deliver...
Read morePersonal Story - Brandon Arkland
Brandon Arkland won’t let his Asperger’s Syndrome diagnosis be a barrier to accomplishing his goals. Instead, he embraces it and turns what others often view as a negative impact of...
Read moreAdvocate of the Year Award Notice
2014 ID Action ‘Advocate of the Year’ Nominations Needed Each year, ID Action recognizes one outstanding ID Action registrant who advocates to improve...
Read moreCapitol Day Grants
ID Action will provide eight (8) Capitol Day grants up to $500 each for advocacy training and support to local advocacy groups interested in meeting with their...
Read moreMarch Awareness Month
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and ID Action needs your voice to help us raise awareness. You have an opportunity to make an impact in...
Read moreID Action Self-Advocacy Conference a Success
More than 100 attendees, exhibitors and volunteers from all over Iowa participated in the inaugural ID Action Self-Advocacy Conference in Coralville,...
Read morePersonal Stories of ID Action Self-Advocacy Conference Attendees
The theme of the 2014 ID Action Self-Advocacy Conference was “Make Your Mark” and that is just what we hope attendees will do with the...
Read moreGrassroots Advocacy Center
ID Action’s public policy publication, infoNET, has added a new tool to your advocacy toolbox—the Grassroots Advocacy Center. You do not need to know the...
Read moreGetting Ready for Session
The 2015 legislative session is scheduled to begin on January 12, 2015. Here are a few ways that you can get ready and be prepared to advocate on issues...
Read moreAdvocating for Change Day
Advocating for Change Day will be held on April 22, 2014. Save the date so you can participate in a day specifically intended for Iowans affected by...
Read moreShare Your Story
ID Action has been sharing the personal stories of Iowans with disabilities with you for the last two years. From stories about community involvement and...
Read more2014 ID Action Self-Advocacy Conference video now available!
Check out this year's conference video!
Read morePersonal Story - Lydia Dawley
Heading into her senior year of high school, Lydia Dawley already knows her plans for the future. She has picked out the college she would like to attend and she knows exactly what she would...
Read moreID Action Self-Advocacy Conference
The ID Action Self-Advocacy Conference is quickly approaching! Register by September 3 to take advantage of several discounted offers. Early Bird Discount:...
Read more12 Steps to Success
In each issue, we continue to share with you steps to become a good self-advocate. Next are steps 11 & 12. To view all 12 Steps to Successful Advocacy, please...
Read moreConference Keynote Speaker Highlight
The ID Action Self-Advocacy conference has pulled together a series of sessions to help Iowans with disabilities build their leadership and advocacy skills to...
Read more2014 Election - Getting to Know the Candidates
As each election season rolls around, you probably find yourself wondering where the candidates stand on the issues. ID Action has put together a six-step...
Read moreIowa Self-Advocacy Conference
Join us at the 2014 ID Action Self-Advocacy Conference in October! We have all heard the expression “make your mark,” but what does it really mean? Ray Kroc made...
Read morePersonal Story - Dan Dague
The passion that Dan Dague has for his community is inspiring. Since graduating from Maquoketa High School in 1987, Dan has dedicated his life to being an active member of...
Read moreSession Recap
The 2014 Iowa Legislative session ended on May 2, 2014. Legislators hoped to end the session before the 100-day deadline but in the end went 10 days...
Read moreID Action Regional Advocacy Coalition Grant Recipient
ID Action awarded the United-Coalition of Adaptive Inclusive Recreation (U-CAIR) a Regional Advocacy Coalition grant for 2014. U-CAIR is a network of...
Read moreElections: Why You Should Care
As we head into the general election we will soon be overwhelmed with campaign calls, emails, mailings and knocks on our doors from candidates or their...
Read moreVoter Training
The 2014 general election will be here before we know it, and it is time to start preparing now. ID Action offers the Make Your Mark Voter Training to...
Read more12 Steps to Advocacy
In each issue, we continue to share with you steps to become a good self-advocate. Next are steps 9 & 10. To view all 12 Steps to Successful Advocacy, please...
Read moreID Action Advocacy Conference - October 1-3
ID Action is excited to announce that the first annual ID Action Advocacy Conference will be held October 1-3, 2014 at the Coralville Marriott in...
Read morePersonal Story of Emmanuel Smith
Emmanuel Smith always knew he wanted to be involved in advocacy. He said, “at a young age, my parents instilled in me the idea that we are all stewards of each other.” This idea...
Read moreMarch Awareness Month
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness month. This year, we are focusing on community involvement and inclusion. Communities throughout Iowa are...
Read more12 Steps to Success
In each issue, we continue to share with you steps to become a good self-advocate. Steps 7 & 8 focus on developing strong communication skills and determining the best...
Read moreYouth Leadership Forum
Youth Leadership Forum is a five day leadership training program for 10th, 11th, and 12th grade high school students with disabilities. The next...
Read moreVoter Training
The Make Your Mark! Voter Training is designed to educate and inform attendees of their rights and responsibilities as voters. We will cover the most...
Read moreLocal Capitol Days Highlights
ID Action spent the day at the Capitol with an advocacy group from the Waterloo/Cedar Falls area. They traveled to Des Moines to meet with their...
Read moreThe Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act What Iowans with Disabilities Need to Know
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) also known as “Obamacare” was signed into law in 2010 to increase the quality, accessibility and affordability of health...
Read moreHealthcare Reform and the Impact for People with Disabilities
1. Plans must cover mental health and substance abuse services. Plans must cover “essential health benefits” which includes mental health. Plans will be required to...
Read moreThe Affordable Care Act and Disabilities - Visiting Nurse Services of Iowa
By Karen Sullivan, Program Manager and Lead Navigator, Visiting Nurse Services of Iowa Visiting Nurse Services of Iowa (VNS of Iowa) was one of three...
Read moreThe Impact of Affordable Care Act on Regional MH/DS Services
By Linda Hinton, Government Relations Manager, Iowa State Association of Counties This expansion of access to health insurance coverage under the...
Read moreThe Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act - Where To Get Help
If you need help or have questions about your options, you can contact a navigator or a certified application counselor (CAC). Navigators have been...
Read moreSpencer Aktion Club
“I matter to my community because my community matters to me.” This is the Spencer Aktion Club’s motto and defines what is important to the members of the...
Read moreBuilding Your Advocacy Toolkit
The 2014 Legislative Session is quickly approaching and now is the time to prepare as an advocate. Building a personal Advocacy Toolkit will help you to have the...
Read moreAdvocacy through Social Media
Social Media sites like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube provide a great opportunity to stay informed and connected and allow you to share information. Here are few ways you...
Read moreCommunity Involvement
We have heard from many Iowans that being involved in their community is an important part of their life. It makes them feel as though they are a part...
Read moreLocal Capitol Day Grants
Each year, ID Action offers opportunities for Iowans to visit the Capitol and talk with their legislators. In 2013, ID Action held Advocating for...
Read moreTake Your Legislator to Work
During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, ID Action held our first Take Your Legislator to Work Campaign. The goal of this campaign was...
Read more12 Steps to Successful Advocacy
In each editions of the Iowa Advocacy Connection we share with you the 12 steps to Successful Advocacy. We are now on steps 5 & 6. A full list of these steps can be found...
Read morePerspectives in Policy: Perspectives on Employment
In October, we will celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month amidst a growing sentiment that the participation of people with disabilities in the...
Read moreScott Witte, Hope Haven, Inc.
My Choice Employment……a new service of Hope Haven, Inc. Work is an integral part of our lives; we draw meaning, value, and a sense of contribution from our...
Read moreMarcy M. Davis, Candeo
Iowa is embarking on a very significant change with regard to employment services for individuals with disabilities and it is an emotional topic. It may help...
Read moreLin Nibbelink - DHS - Division of Mental Health & Disability Services
The Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS), the Iowa Department of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS), and the Department for the Blind (IDB), in...
Read moreNational Disability Employment Awareness Month
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and all Iowans are encouraged to participate. The purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month...
Read more"Because We Are Equal To the Task"
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month and ID Action is excited to get involved and raise awareness about disability and the impact that...
Read moreEric Frank
For Eric Frank, helping and encouraging others is a way of life. Growing up in the small Northwest Iowa town of Lake City, Eric was surrounded by family, and a...
Read moreRegional Advocacy Coalitions
ID Action is offering funding to support the development of Regional Advocacy Coalitions throughout the state. The coalitions will focus on providing...
Read moreTake your Legislator to Work Campaign
In October, ID Action will be conducting the Take Your Legislator to Work Campaign. The goal of this campaign is to raise awareness that every Iowan with...
Read moreAdvocacy Groups
Are you a member of an Advocacy group? If so, we want to hear from you and learn more about your group or organization. Share your group’s mission, tell...
Read more12 Steps to Successful Advocacy
At Advocating for Change Day, we talked about the 12 Steps to Successful Advocacy. In the last issue of the Iowa Advocacy Connection, we shared steps 1 & 2 and now we...
Read moreAdvocating For Change
In March, many of you attended Advocating for Change Day at the Iowa State Capitol and had the opportunity to attend an advocacy training and talk with your...
Read moreAAPD is collecting stories from people with disabilities
AAPD is collecting stories from people with disabilities who face the tough choice of foregoing economic opportunities such as promotions, higher pay,...
Read moreAfter Year-Long Investigation, Senator Tom Harkin (IA-D) Releases Report Showing
After Year-Long Investigation, Senator Tom Harkin (IA-D) Releases Report Showing ADA’s Promise of Integration is Not Being Met for Many Americans with...
Read moreNew York Times's Editorial Board urges the Senate to ratify
New York Times's Editorial Board urges the Senate to ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. New York Times
Read moreGun Violence & Mental Health
Communities across the United States have seen their share of violent shootings over the last several years. Immediately following, there is often a...
Read moreNAMI's Perspective
The U.S. Surgeon General has determined that the likelihood of violence from people with mental illness is low. There are many reasons why violence occurs in our...
Read moreNRA's Perspective
The National Rifle Association (NRA) has a long-standing record of strongly supporting the Second Amendment to the United States which states, “A well-regulated militia being necessary to the...
Read moreFamily Perspective
-Dave & Joan Becker Although our son, Mark Becker, just happens to fall in the less than 1% category of those with mental illness that did actually...
Read moreLaw Enforcement Perspective
-Sheriff Michael Fitzgerald, Story County As Immediate Past President of the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA), my perception on the gun control...
Read moreAdvocate Perspective
- Jessica Tull Allowing law enforcement to access mental health records is a bad idea. There are two main reasons I believe this: First, it would deter...
Read moreAn Update on Federal Gun Control Legislation
It has been over six months since the mass killing at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut and the incident has renewed a national...
Read moreThe National Council on Disabilities released two new publications
The National Council on Disabilities released two new publications concerning the Medicaid program - A Medicaid Block Grant Program: Implications for...
Read moreLabor Department Announces Theme for National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) 2013
Labor Department Announces Theme for National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) 2013 The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability...
Read moreA McDonald's in Oakhurst CA has agreed to pay $100,000
A McDonald's in Oakhurst CA has agreed to pay $100,000 to former employee Derrick Morgan to settle a disability discrimination lawsuit filed against...
Read moreA monthly publication of NCHPAD
A monthly publication of NCHPAD - the NATIONAL CENTER on HEALTH, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, and DISABILITY www.NCHPAD.org Not a subscriber? To sign up for...
Read moreThe Quality Mall recently launched a new department titled "Women's Issues."
The Quality Mall recently launched a new department titled "Women's Issues." It already has more than 40 products that explore topics like physical health...
Read moreWe have a new Research to Practice in Self-Determination issue out!
From Self-Determination and Aging: "Throughout this publication we provide examples highlighting the importance of hearing the voices of adults aging...
Read moreIn Your Community
In March, over 600 Iowans with disabilities, advocates and family members joined ID Action at the Iowa State Capitol for Advocating for Change Day. Attendees let...
Read moreAdvocacy University
If you were not able to attend Advocating for Change Day, you can still get the information from the training session. Go to www.idaction.org and click...
Read moreAdvocate of The Year
ID Action is proud to name Angie Plager, Cambridge, IA, as the Advocate of Year. Angie is a dedicated advocate who according to Easter Seals is their...
Read moreLifetime Achievement Award
Dave McCalley, Cedar Falls, is the recipient of the 2013 ID Action Lifetime Achievement Award. Dave has been a leader in advocating for Iowans with...
Read more12 Steps to Successful Advocacy
At Advocating for Change Day, we talked about these steps. Throughout the next few issues of the Iowa Advocacy Connection, we will share them...
Read moreAngie Petersen's Advocacy Story
Over the past several months, ID Action has been visiting communities throughout the state, meeting with advocates to hear their self-advocacy stories. In...
Read moreAdvocating for Change Day
Thank you to everyone that attended Advocating for Change Day at the Iowa State Capitol. The stories that were shared affected not only legislators; they...
Read moreDave McCalley selected for the 2013 ID Action Lifetime Achievement Award.
Dave McCalley selected for the 2013 ID Action Lifetime Achievement Award. Des Moines, IA - Iowans with Disabilities in Action (ID Action) has selected...
Read morePerspectives in Policy - Spring 2013
In 2009, Congress passed and President Obama signed into the law the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, also referred to as the “ACA” or...
Read moreStanding Firm - The Governor's Perspective
Governor Branstad has stood firm in his opposition to expanding Medicaid in Iowa and since then, he has noted his concern with Iowa taxpayers being stuck with large costs down the road because...
Read moreLegislative Perspective - Senate President Pam Jochum (D-Dubuque)
My parents brought their children up to be involved in our community, and to act when we had a chance to make a difference. I was taught the same values by my...
Read moreLegislative Perspective - House Majority Leader Linda Upmeyer (R-Clear Lake)
The Affordable Care Act gives states the option of expanding their Medicaid programs to enroll individuals earning up to 138 percent of the federal poverty...
Read moreSupporting Medicaid Expansion - Tori Squires, Iowa Primary Care Association
For those of us who work in health care, the predominant legislative issue this year has been the state’s pending decision on accepting Medicaid expansion as...
Read moreCPC Perspective - Lisa Rockhill, Lyon County CPC
As counties are moving forward with the MH/DD redesign efforts, Medicaid expansion affords us the opportunity to look at services, especially to those...
Read moreUpdate on Medicaid Expansion
Senate Democrats have offered what they consider a compromise to address the Governor’s concern over the current federal deficit and the lack of confidence he...
Read moreA Guide for Including People with Disabilities in Disaster Preparedness Planning
Disability.gov has published a guide titled, "A Guide for Including People with Disabilities in Disaster Preparedness Planning." The guide assists...
Read moreView Issue 1 as a PDF
Click the link below to view Issue 1 as a pdf and print.
Read moreWelcome to the Iowa Advocacy Connection
Welcome to the new newsletter from ID Action – the Iowa Advocacy Connection. Over the last year, ID Action has placed a greater focus on creating connections...
Read moreRick Samson - Be Persistent. Be Patient. Keep Moving Forward.
As an elementary student in Nevada, Iowa, Rick Samson, learned the importance of being a self-advocate. As the only student in his small school with a...
Read moreAdvocating For Change Day " Make a Difference!
Advocating for Change Day will be held on March 27, 2013. ID Action and Polk County Health Services invite you to participate in a day specifically for...
Read moreAdvocate of the Year
Each year ID Action recognizes one outstanding ID Action registrant who advocates to improve the lives of Iowans with disabilities. ID Action is now...
Read moreLocal Capitol Days
Are you part of an advocacy group that would like to visit the Iowa State Capitol and talk with your legislators? ID Action is offering Local Capitol...
Read moreID Action Websites
ID Action is excited to announce the launch of our new websites. Check out the new opportunities you have to stay informed and connected. Here are a...
Read moreDevelopmental Disabilities Awareness Month
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and ID Action needs your voice to help us raise awareness. You have an opportunity to make an impact in...
Read moreSchools Must Provide Students with Disabilities Equal Access
The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights has issued guidance on the legal responsibilities of school districts to provide equal access...
Read moreIntroduction to Perspectives in Policy
Welcome to the first edition of Perspectives in Policy, a new publication launched by Iowans with Disabilities in Action (ID Action) in partnership with the Iowa...
Read moreBecky Harker's Perspective - Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council
Like all people, my perspectives on policy are influenced greatly by my life experiences. I have a history of being what my parents called a “funny looking kid.” I have a tremor...
Read morePatti Todd's Perspective - A Parent Advocate
As a mother of a son who has autism, Patti Todd’s perspective has been shaped by focusing on the best ways to maximize the benefits her son receives as a waiver recipient in the state of Iowa. Patti and her...
Read moreSherri Nielsen - Disability Service Provider
My perspective on disability services in Iowa began forming at age 11 as I watched the battles my mother fought for my 13-year-old brother who lost his eyesight due to complications...
Read moreRep. Dave Heaton (R) - Mount Pleasant
Representative Heaton is from Iowa House District 91, representing all of Henry County and North Lee County in southeast Iowa. He is the co-chair of the Health and Human Services (HHS)...
Read moreSen. Jack Hatch (D) - Des Moines
Senator Hatch has a long history of working with and advocating for Iowans with disabilities and disability-related issues. Over the years he has had many experiences that have shaped his...
Read moreProvider & Workforce Advocate Perspectives
—David R. VanNingen, Hope Haven Inc. I applaud the vision that employment in the general workforce is the first and preferred outcome… for all...
Read moreEmployee Perspectives
—Aaron Anderson, Roger Girard, Koki Nakagawa & Nathaniel Pierson Members of the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council (DD Council) share varying perspectives on...
Read morePerspectives in Policy - Disability Employment
There has been a growing sentiment that the low participation rate of people with disabilities in the workforce is unacceptable and that people with developmental...
Read moreA Broad Perspective
—Bill Stumpf, Father and team nurse for persons with physical and intellectual disablities I am the father of a 22 year old son with an intellectual...
Read moreSupported Employment
—Sherry O. Becker, North Iowa Vocational Center, Inc., Mason City, Iowa My commitment to increasing job placement and competitive employment outcomes...
Read moreMental Health & Disability Services Redesign
Earlier this year, the Iowa Legislature passed a bill that made big changes in the state’s adult mental health and disability services system. The legislation...
Read moreA Provider's Perspective - Marilyn Althoff, Hills & Dales Executive Director, Dubuque, Iowa
As we are all preparing to celebrate the new year, we must also be planning for the next important political process to begin. The 85th General Assembly of the...
Read moreA County Perspective - Sarah Kaufman, Henry County CPC & IA Community Services Association President
When the 2013 legislative session begins there is a need to continue to make mental health and disability service financing a priority. Counties...
Read moreDennis & Tina's Perspective
Tina Terrell and Dennis Bahr are nervous about their futures. They are experienced, capable and valued members of the workforce at Cherokee Work Services and in the community of...
Read moreBen's Perspective
Ben Taber is a young Polk County resident who is living and working with Asperger Syndrome. In a recent meeting about the Mental Health and Disability...
Read morePerspectives in Policy - Direct Care Workforce
Iowa, like the nation, is facing a mounting challenge to meet the needs of an aging population and ensure access to support services and choice for people of all abilities. Direct...
Read moreProvider & Workforce Advocate Perspectives
Everyone that we spoke with while preparing this issue of Perspectives in Policy agreed that Iowa’s direct care workforce is an invaluable resource that is essential to the delivery of...
Read moreA Parent's Perspective
Our daughter was placed in our home, as a foster child, when she was 9 days old. She had been exposed to methamphetamine and, as a result, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy...
Read moreA Direct Care Worker's Perspective
I have a great deal of passion and love for the work I do in direct care. It is sad, but a good part of the public world does not view direct care as a valued...
Read moreImportance of Voting - Your Vote Counts!
The ID Action team has been on the road over the last several weeks providing trainings on the voting process to Iowans affected by disability. The training focuses...
Read moreAdvocate’s Guide to Mental Health & Disability Services Redesign
In early 2012, the Iowa Legislature passed a bill that made big changes in the state’s adult mental health and disability services system. The legislation...
Read moreKoki Nakagawa - "Just be Yourself"
One piece of advice that Koki Nakagawa would give to encourage other self-advocates or those that want to become better self-advocates is to "Just be yourself." He...
Read moreAdvocating For Change Day
Mark your calendars – Advocating for Change Day is scheduled for March 27th. Join Iowans with Disabilities in Action at the Capitol to meet with your...
Read moreNational Disability Employment Awareness Month
On September 28, 2012, Governor Terry E. Branstad signed a proclamation declaring October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month in Iowa....
Read moreLocal Capitol Days
ID Action provides grant funds, advocacy trainings and support to local advocacy groups who are interested in meeting with their legislators at the Capitol and advocating on...
Read moreElection Day in Iowa - Video now Available
Getting ready to vote takes time, from researching candidates and understanding their position on issues to finding your polling place and heading out to...
Read moreID Action Calendar of Events
Check out the new ID Action calendar of events on www.idaction.org. We want you to get involved in your communities and take action. Leading up to the...
Read moreID Action Website
ID Action will be launching a new website this fall. Please continue to check www.idaction.org for information and resources to help you get involved.
Read moreUpdate Your Information
If you would prefer to receive this publication via email, unsubscribe or change your name or address, please contact ID Action at 866-432-2846 or...
Read moreID Action registrants discuss eliminating the "r" word.
ID Action registrants discuss eliminating the "r" word.
Read moreRemoving barriers to voting - Systems Unlimited helps get voters to the polls, explains their rights
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