DES MOINES, IOWA (October 31, 2025) — Every October, Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) recognizes National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) to promote the many benefits that Iowa receives by supporting successful careers for individuals with disabilities.
This year, IWD and its Vocational Rehabilitation division are taking that recognition further by celebrating four Iowa employers who have shown a steadfast commitment to disability employment.
Champion for Disability Employment Award: Athene
Athene is being recognized for going above and beyond to work with the disability community and incorporate Iowans with disabilities in the workplace. Watch on YouTube.
New Business Partnership Award: AMC Theatres
AMC Theatres is being recognized for a new collaboration with Vocational Rehabilitation that has shown early success in hiring. Watch on YouTube.
Innovative Award: Iowa Veterans Home
Iowa Veterans Home is receiving the Innovative Award due to the example they’ve set for other employers in taking a unique path to recruiting individuals with disabilities. Watch on YouTube.
Vocational Rehabilitation Recognition Award: MercyOne
MercyOne is being recognized for becoming an emerging leader and innovator in disability employment. Watch on YouTube.
While October marks the end of NDEAM, it does not mark the end of IWD’s support for programs that empower our state’s employers to invest in some of the most vulnerable Iowans and help guide them in rewarding employment that can evolve into life-long careers.
For more information on how we can help employers hire from this diverse talent pool, or to find a meaningful career yourself, visit workforce.iowa.gov.
