Iowa Department for the Blind

To close out Older Americans Month, we’re highlighting one of our OIB clients: Mary Sonksen!

A Des Moines resident, Mary has been legally blind since birth and has spent much of her life advocating for and supporting others with vision loss through her teaching career and leadership of a local support group. 👏

Read more about how Mary continues to champion her health and gain new skills: https://blind.iowa.gov/press-release/2026-05-27/mary-sonksen

This May, we’re celebrating Older Americans Month and the 2026 theme: Champion Your Health 🏃‍♀️👏

Throughout the month, we’ll be sharing client spotlights from our Older Individuals who are Blind (OIB) program, highlighting stories of resilience, growth, and independence!

Follow along and learn more about our Independent Living Services: https://blind.iowa.gov/press-release/2026-05-13/older-americans-month-2026

Join our free virtual workshops for blind and low-vision Pre-ETS students ages 14–21! This month’s sessions focus on advocating for your financial future:

💰 Earning While Learning (May 14)
💵 Saving Money (May 21)
📈 Investing in Your Future (May 28)

Students will gain practical tools, self-advocacy skills, and real-world advice from blind and low-vision mentors — all while connecting with peers!

Learn more and register: https://blind.iowa.gov/press-release/2026-05-06/pre-ets-virtual-programming-may-2026

The IDB Library's Summer Reading Program starts in less than a month! Sign up by Saturday, May 30! ☀️📝 Learn more: https://iowalibrary.blog/programs/summer-reading-program/?fbclid=IwY2xjawRuzWdleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETE4RUlsdmlEaE9BZkUxaDRmc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHoOcRZZbN96-CSanAeX-ql_j1hkkcl8ibV2TFqkv9HIbmGvBJHs80XGFU-Wd_aem_V7JeDYncUXYpmAL7-pQ8Xg

🚨 URGENT: THE LIBRARY MASCOT IS MISSING! 🚨

The Prehistoric Investigation Agency (P.I.A.) needs YOU! Join us for Unearth a Story, Unleash Your Inner Explorer, a free eight week virtual adventure for young detectives across Iowa.

🕵️‍♂️ The Mission: Track down our missing mascot through 26 virtual events, including Science Labs, Art Clue Connections, and guest visits from the Lazy J Rescue Ranch and more!
📦 The Gear: Every agent gets an Explorer Pack featuring an Agent Thermos, 3D Dino keychain, dinosaur egg, and even tickets to the Blank Park Zoo!
🏆 The Reward: Earn character badges, a Rescue Key, and your very own Miniature Mystery Mascot!

Details: 📅 June 8 to July 31 💻 Virtually on Zoom (Mon/Wed/Fri at 1:00 PM) ⏳ Registration ends May 30!
Secure your agent badge here: https://iowalibrary.blog/programs/summer-reading-program/

Dive into inspiring stories from two Paralympic athletes featured during our April Youth Weekend Retreat!

In the first video, Tyler Merren shares his journey as a Paralympic goalball medalist, personal trainer, and fitness app developer. Hear about his career, passion for fitness, and the experiences that shaped his path.

In the second video, volunteer Greg DeWall shares his story as a Paralympic judo medalist and Assistant Supervisor at a recreation center. Hear his career advice, personal journey, and passion for recreation.

Watch on YouTube:
🎥 Tyler Merren: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4kDdxYP_GM
🎥 Greg DeWall: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCN2hpBbXKU