Access 2 Independence

10/14/2026

10/14/2026

Rising prices are affecting families across Iowa, but thanks to new income guidelines, you may now qualify for SNAP!

The Food Bank’s team of compassionate experts can see if you qualify for benefits, walk you through the application process, and connect you with additional community resources, all for FREE!

Call 1-855-944-FOOD (3663) today!

10/07/2026

10/01/2026

Join ASK Resource Center on October 19th for their "ASK an Expert: IEP or 504 Plan?" webinar. In this webinar, presenters will break down IEPs and 504 Plans in clear, family-friendly language. You’ll learn what each plan is designed to do, how they are different, and what schools are responsible for when a student has one.

Register Here: https://www.askresource.org/events/october-19th-ask-an-expert-iep-or-504-plan

09/30/2026

Public Notice (9.23.2026)

09/28/2026

🎥 Your story has the power to make a difference.

Parents and caregivers of children and youth with special health care needs have experiences, perspectives, and stories that can inspire change—and the Iowa Family Leadership Training Institute (IFLTI) wants to help you bring yours to life!

Join us for Digital Storytelling, a 3-day, in-person workshop designed to help families create a meaningful 2–4 minute digital story that can be used for advocacy and healing. Participants will receive hands-on training in script writing, voice recording, and video editing.

📅 November 11–13, 2026
📍 Iowa City, Iowa
🏨 Lodging and meals are provided

Whether you have a story you've been wanting to share or aren't quite sure where to begin, this workshop will help you turn your experiences into a powerful tool for connection and advocacy.

✨ Ready to tell your story? Apply today:
https://bit.ly/tellstories26

Questions? Contact Rachel Charlot at [email protected]

This Digital Storytelling opportunity is sponsored by the Iowa DD Council.

09/25/2026

YETI is a national youth leadership and engagement group that brings together young adults with disabilities to shape transition resources, strengthen systems, and make sure youth voice is part of the decisions that impact young people’s lives.

Learn more here: https://raisecenter.org/yeti/

09/21/2026

Here is an article from disability scoop about a hiring program in Baltimore that helps People with Autism feel more confident about finding employment.

Rather than placing people with autism in employment, the program facilitates introductions and connections while helping participants build the skills to experience the job search themselves.

09/16/2026

09/16/2026

Have you explored our updated "Helping Everyone Join the Conversation" resource?

This publication explains simple ways to make meetings, discussions, and written materials more welcoming for everyone!

Check it out on our website: https://vist.ly/5iju7

Thanks to the State Alliance Team Committee of the Bridging Aging and Disability Networks project for their partnership and support in developing and sharing this resource!

[Image description: Flyer titled “Helping Everyone Join the Conversation” from the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council. It explains why inclusion matters, noting that people with disabilities, non‑native English speakers, and those with limited education are often left out of public discussions. It encourages using accommodations and provides contact information for the Council at the bottom.]