Employment

Telework is defined as work that can be performed from home or other remote sites away from the office or another place apart from the usual place of work through the use of computers or telecommunications. Self-employment is defined as working for oneself in a business selling goods or services for the purpose of making a profit.

A number of factors make home-based business ownership and telecommuting an attractive alternative for people with disabilities: flexibility, independence, elimination of transportation barriers, ability to control work settings and schedules, and economic self-sufficiency.

For more information regarding self-employment contact:

The Abilities Fund
307 North 13th Street, Suite 500
Centerville, IA 52544
Phone: 641-856-2173
TTY: 641-856-3350
Toll Free: 1-888-222-8943
prlind@abilitiesfund.org
URL: http://www.abilitiesfund.org

• The Abilities Fund is a nationwide nonprofit organization targeted to advancing entrepreneurial opportunities for Americans with disabilities.

Iowa Workforce Development
Phone: (515) 281-5387 or (800) 562-4692
TTY (515) 281-4748 or (800) 831-1399
URL: http://www.iowaworkforce.com/

• Iowa Workforce Development links job placement and skill development into a system of lifelong learning and opportunity. Through resources and services created for employers, employees, and the unemployed, Iowans can take control of their economic future and the security of their families.

Iowa Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS)
510 East 12th Street
Des Moines, I A 50319-0240
Phone: 515-281-4211 V/TTY
URL: http://www.dvrs.state.ia.us

• The Iowa Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) works for and with individuals with disabilities to achieve their employment, independence, and economic goals.

Iowa Department for the Blind
524 Fourth Street
Des Moines, IA 50309-2364
Phone: 515- 281-1333
Toll free: 800-362-2587
TTY: 515- 281-1355
URL: http://www.blind.state.ia.us/

• The Iowa Department for the Blind is the state agency responsible for providing most services including Vocational Rehabilitation services to Iowans who are blind to live independently and work competitively.