What We Do

Each year, DRI carefully allocates our limited funding to designated areas of focus to capture the needs of as many Iowans with disabilities as possible. We look to the community to provide insight into their needs and adjust our Areas of Focus to reflect that. Although our areas of focus are continually evolving, we will always defend the rights of individuals with disabilities.

DRI has the authority to investigate complaints of abuse or neglect of individuals with disabilities. DRI helps adults and youth with disabilities. DRI does not have an income limit to qualify for help. A disability is a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.

Our Services

DRI provides

free legal and advocacy services to Iowans with disabilities. DRI has the authority to
investigate complaints of abuse or neglect of individuals with disabilities, including individuals with significant mental health issues.

Areas of Focus

Go to:

Keeping Iowans with Disabilities Safe

Abuse and Neglect: Facilities and Congregate Settings
Abuse and Neglect: Home and Community Based Services
Representative Payee

Civil Rights

Right to Access Government Services and Programs
Right to Access Public Accommodation
Unnecessary Substitute Decision Making
Voting

Community Living

Community Integration
Community Based Support Services
Medicaid Services Supports
Assistive Technology
Employment – Reasonable Accommodations
Benefits Planning
Employment – Vocation Services and Employment Networks
Barriers to Employment
Special Education: Challenging Behaviors

Statewide Advocacy

Areas of Focus Selection Process

Case Selection

We want to hear your voice!

We seek to reflect the community’s needs by encouraging individuals to suggest new areas of focus as needed. Our priority is to help Iowans with disabilities where they need it most. If you have a suggestion, please fill out our form.

Suggest a new area of focus