Paraquad

04/07/2026

Today is ! Health is more than access to care—it’s about access to community, independence, and the resources that make it possible for people to live life on their own terms.

At Paraquad, we believe health equity includes people with disabilities in every conversation. Through advocacy, peer support, independent living services, and community-based programs, we work to remove barriers and expand access so everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

This year’s theme, “Together for health. Stand with science,” reminds us that progress happens when we listen, learn, and act—together.

04/06/2026

Did you know that Paraquad offers a number of peer support groups? You can learn more about our Peer Services programming at https://paraquad.org/independent-living-services/peer-services.

04/05/2026

We’re hiring at Paraquad!

If you’re looking for meaningful work that makes a real impact, we invite you to explore opportunities with our team. At Paraquad, our mission is to empower people with disabilities to increase their independence through choice and opportunity—and that work starts with passionate, dedicated staff.

Whether you’re just starting your career or bringing years of experience, you’ll find a workplace driven by purpose, collaboration, and community.

View current openings and apply here: https://paraquad.aaimtrack.com/jobs/

Full-Time Opportunities:
• Accessibility and Assistive Technology Manager
• Community Work Incentives Coordinator (CWIC)
• Consumer Direct Services Specialist
• Maintenance Technician
• Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Project Director

Part-Time Opportunities:
• Driver
• Summer Work Experience (SWEP) Coach

Join us in building a more inclusive, accessible future.

04/03/2026

Our partners Missouri History Museum have a sensory-friendly evening planned for next Wednesday, April 8 from 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

This special program is designed for guests of all ages with autism, their companions, and families or individuals with disabilities. Guests will enjoy a calm, inclusive environment with adjusted lighting and sound – all while the museum is closed to the public.

This event is free, but registration is required: https://bit.ly/40Z9Xmr

Join us for a sensory-friendly evening at the Museum!

This special program is designed for guests of all ages with autism, their companions, and families or individuals with disabilities. Enjoy a calm, inclusive environment with adjusted lighting and sound – all while the museum is closed to the public to ensure a cozy setting.

What’s happening:
📖 Storytelling, crafts, and a music-making room
🐾 Relaxation time with therapy Duo Dogs
🎡 Explore at your own pace or join short guided tours of "The 1904 World’s Fair" and "Collected" exhibits
🏛️ Design your own mini-museum exhibit with touchable artifacts
💬 Visit resource tables from our partner organizations

This event is free, but registration is required: https://bit.ly/40Z9Xmr

📍 Missouri History Museum
🗓️ Wednesday, April 8
⏰ 5:30-8pm

04/02/2026

It's World Autism Awareness Day! Today we recognize, celebrate, and support individuals on the autism spectrum. At Paraquad, we believe that every person deserves the opportunity to live independently, pursue their goals, and be fully included in their community. Many of the individuals we serve live with autism and other developmental disabilities, and we are committed to providing resources, advocacy, and programs that empower each person to thrive.

Awareness is just the beginning. True inclusion means listening, learning, and working together to break down barriers, so that all people of all abilities can access the opportunities they deserve.

Join us in celebrating neurodiversity and building a more inclusive world.

04/01/2026

Yesterday, Paraquad joined advocates from across the state at Missouri Centers for Independent Living (MOCIL) Advocacy Day at the Missouri State Capitol.

Together, we met with elected officials, shared our lived experiences, and advocated for stronger disability rights and independent living services across Missouri.

A special shoutout to our own Teona McGhaw for addressing the group in the rotunda.

This year’s message was clear - we’re not optional. Accessible spaces and services are not a luxury; they are a necessity.

To learn more about our advocacy work, visit ushttps://paraquad.org/public-policy-advocacy.

04/01/2026

Last week, our team came together for an all-staff meeting—and it was a powerful reminder of what makes Paraquad strong. We heard important updates from our CEO and Chiefs, grounding us in where we are and where we’re headed and then broke into small groups for thoughtful discussion—sharing ideas, asking questions, and connecting across teams. It's moments like these help keep us aligned, engaged, and moving forward together in our mission to advance equity and independence for people with disabilities.

03/30/2026

In honor of Women’s History Month, Paraquad is highlighting women whose leadership continues to shape the disability rights movement.

This week, we’re recognizing Vilissa Thompson, a disability rights advocate, writer, and founder of Ramp Your Voice! Ramp Your Voice! is dedicated to amplifying the voices and experiences of disabled people of color.

Through her advocacy, Vilissa has helped bring greater attention to the intersections of disability, race, and gender, challenging systems that exclude and pushing for a more inclusive and equitable movement. Her work has expanded conversations about disability justice and representation in media, policy, and community leadership.

Vilissa’s leadership reminds us that the disability rights movement grows stronger when all voices are heard and valued.

03/30/2026

Today is National Doctors’ Day, and we recognize the physicians who play a vital role in the lives of the people we serve. At Paraquad, we see every day how access to thoughtful, compassionate, and skilled medical care can shape independence, health, and quality of life for people with disabilities. From rehabilitation to ongoing care, doctors are critical partners in helping individuals live fully and on their own terms.

We’re grateful for the providers who listen, who adapt, and who see the whole person.

Thank you for the care you give and the difference you make.

03/26/2026

Paraquad is proud to announce that President and CEO Latosha R. Fowlkes, LCSW, has been named a 2026 St. Louis Titan 100 Hall of Fame honoree, recognizing her leadership in advancing disability rights, economic inclusion, and community impact. Fowlkes is guiding Paraquad into its next chapter as a hub for disability innovation, wellness, advocacy, and independent living while continuing the organization’s 55-year legacy of championing equity, independence, and opportunity for people with disabilities.

03/26/2026

I am the leading disability rights organization in the region, founded by Max Starkloff after a life-changing accident that inspired him to fight for independence.

I am the organization making independence accessible.

I am dedicated to championing equity and opportunity for people with disabilities through services, partnerships, education, and advocacy.

I am Paraquad.

I am St. Louis.

03/24/2026

In honor of Women’s History Month, Paraquad is highlighting women whose leadership has shaped the disability rights movement.

This week, we recognize Lois Curtis, a disability rights advocate whose courage helped transform how people with disabilities live in their communities.

After spending years in state-run institutions, Lois fought for the right to live in the community with appropriate supports. Her case became part of the landmark Supreme Court decision Olmstead v. L.C., which affirmed that unjustified institutionalization is a form of discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Because of Lois Curtis and others who stood alongside her, millions of people with disabilities have stronger protections to live, work, and participate in their communities.

At Paraquad, we continue the work she helped advance—supporting the right of people with disabilities to live independently and fully participate in community life.