Many outstanding Latinos/as helped shape Iowa and many strong Latino leaders continue to contribute their talents and skills to improve the quality of life in this state. To recognize and honor these achievers and to provide visible examples for tomorrow’s Latino leaders, the Iowa Commission of Latino Affairs has established the Iowa Latino Hall of Fame in 2017 with the goal of ensuring that the efforts of Latino leaders is honorably recognized and celebrated.

Do you or a loved one have trouble hearing or talking on the phone? Say hello to better communication! 

Telecommunications Access Iowa helps Iowans who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech difficulty get specialized telecommunications equipment at little or low cost. This includes amplified phones, captioned telephones that work with the free Relay Iowa service, iPads, and accessories such as loud/flashing ringers and amplified answering machines. Qualified individuals can receive a voucher that pays for approximately 95% of the average cost of this equipment. It is not a low-income program, so many people can apply!

To qualify, you need to meet the following conditions: Be an Iowa resident. Be at least 5 years of age or able to use the telecommunications equipment. Have phone service now or plan on getting it (not needed for the iPad requirements). Confirm that the equipment you are asking for would make telecommunications use easier for you. Confirm your income is less than what is listed on our website at www.teleiowa.com.

It is easy as 1 -- 2 ­-- 3 to apply! You can find an application on our website. Download and complete the front and back pages. You will need to get a signature from a licensed professional in Iowa such as a doctor, nurse, audiologist, or ASL interpreter. If you have more questions or want to have an application mailed to you, you can email info@teleiowa.com or call us at 515-282-5099 (toll free 800-606-5099).  

Junior Jaime, Waukee

Junior is 25 years old, born  in Pasadena, CA but raised in Denison, IA. He graduated from Denison High School in 2011 and continued his education at Iowa Western CC from 2011-2013 where he received his associate’s degree.  From there he went onto Iowa State University from 2013-2016 where he received his bachelor’s degree in Child, Adult, and Family services.

Junior was an AmeriCorps member at the Iowa Department of Human Rights coordinating the Iowa Youth Congress program, and was part of the Iowa Commission of Latino Affairs' Legislative Committee, which organized the first ever Iowa Latino Day on the Hill.

Alfonso Perez, Ankeny

Rev. Alfonso brings nearly 30 years of ministry and community leadership. He is graced with an ability to transcend ethnicities, political lines, denominational divides and barriers in community that often separate the Church and other community silos. Al also partners with regional leaders to impact their cities. He sits on several city and county boards.