After 46 years of coffee service from men and women with disabilities — starting with Bill Sackter in 1975 — the University of Iowa’s “Wild Bill’s Coffee Shop” has brewed its final cup.

A coffee shop created nearly five decades ago to provide work for an Iowa City man with disabilities is changing with the times.

For 46 years, Wild Bill’s Coffee Shop provided employment for persons with disabilities, while also offering the opportunity for UI students to gain experience and understanding working with persons with disabilities. “More than just coffee,” Wild Bill’s has always functioned as a learning lab for the University of Iowa School of Social Work.

Dr. Gilster's research addresses how community and neighborhood conditions matter for the well-being of residents.

The study examines the association between neighborhood social cohesion and various health factors in NHPI older adults.

Peer Support Specialists and Peer Recovery Coaches provide support, coaching, and advocacy for adults in recovery from mental illness and substance misuse, using specialized training and wisdom gained from their own lived experience. Family Peer Support Specialists use their training and lived experience to provide support, coaching, and advocacy for parents and caregivers of children and youth receiving services for mental health, substance use, and related issues.

Gov. Kim Reynolds, the Iowa Department of Education and the University of Iowa today announced a partnership aimed at expanding support for mental health, including training, resources and outreach to educators and schools across the state. 

Iowa youth living in rural, medically underserved communities will gain access to more mental and behavioral health experts thanks to a new four-year nearly $2 million dollar grant, led by experts in the University of Iowa College of Education and other campus and community partners.

Social Work Clinical Assistant Professor Yolanda Spears has been named the recipient of a University of Iowa 2021 Diversity Catalyst Award.