Paraquad

04/23/2026

Today is , and we have some recommendations for you.

These books celebrate stories that have shaped the disability rights movement—and continue to expand how we understand independence and access.

• "Max Starkloff and the Fight for Disability Rights" by Charles Clagett Jr.
• "Being Heumann" by Judith Heumann
• "The Reason I Jump" by Naoki Higashida
• "An Unquiet Mind" by Kay Redfield Jamison

There are so many other great books that remind us that independence is not one-size-fits-all. Let us know your favorite by dropping it in the comments.

04/23/2026

Today is . Assistive technology helps remove barriers and supports people with disabilities in learning, working, and living more independently in their communities.

At Paraquad, we see every day how the right tools and support can make a meaningful difference. From simple adaptations to more advanced solutions, assistive technology is about access, choice, and independence.

Because independence isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Learn more about our assistive technology services at: https://tinyurl.com/mryh5974

04/23/2026

It’s during , so we’re recognizing a group whose leadership helps guide our work every day - the Paraquad Board of Directors.

As volunteers, our board members give their time, expertise, and passion to help advance Paraquad’s mission and strengthen our impact across the community. Their commitment helps ensure we continue making independence accessible for all.

Thank you for all that you do.

04/22/2026

Today we’re celebrating the people who keep everything moving. On this (and every day), we’re especially grateful for our incredible team!

Thank you to our Front Desk Staff - Debra, Deborah, and Faustin!

We appreciate you, Joanna and Kevin at the Orthwein Center!

And a very special shout out to Tracy for making it all come together!

Thank you for all that you do.

04/21/2026

Early giving for starts tomorrow! You can give your gift early at givestlday.org and help Paraquad make independence accessible! Donate now at givestlday.org

04/20/2026

It’s , and we’re celebrating the people who help make independence accessible every day through their commitment to Paraquad.

From ramp builds to youth programming to behind-the-scenes efforts, our volunteers show up with heart, dedication, and a belief that everyone deserves the freedom to live independently.

Because of you, our community is stronger, more connected, and more inclusive.

Thank you for being part of Paraquad’s mission.

04/18/2026

Congratulations to Dr. Kerri Morgan! Earlier this week, Dr. Morgan was announced as the recipient of this year's Washington University in St. Louis Provost Impact Award! Paraquad is grateful to partner with Dr. Morgan at the Stephen A. Orthwein Center on her project, wheelchair user physical activity training intervention to enhance cardiometabolic health (WATCH).

Way to go, Dr. Morgan!

CC: WashU Medicine Occupational Therapy Program

04/17/2026

The National Council on Independent Living's Oral History Project captures the firsthand stories of disability rights leaders and advocates. Their stories remind us that progress didn’t happen overnight. It was built through grassroots organizing, advocacy, and a shared belief that people with disabilities deserve choice, access, and opportunity.

Paraquad is thrilled to see the inclusion of Colleen Starkloff and hear her reflections about her husband, Paraquad founder, Max Starkloff.

View Colleen's story at: https://ncil.org/oral-history-project/

04/17/2026

Ready to get in the game?

Unified Soccer Tryouts are coming to St. Louis CITY SC, bringing athletes of all abilities together to play, compete, and connect.

April 19 | 4:30–7:00 PM
Ages 16–25

Scan the QR code to sign up!

04/16/2026

Paraqaud's S.M.A.R.T. (St. Louis Metropolitan Alliance for Reliable Transit) is hosting A Conversation with Katie Rodriguez Banister on Saturday, April 18th. This event will be conducted via Zoom, and a registration is required. Please register at: https://tinyurl.com/yc7z4buc

04/15/2026

Our Family and Family Manager, Stephanie McDowell, will be presenting at UMSL Office of Inclusive Postsecondary Education's Ready Set Go event! Learn more at https://www.umsl.edu/education/oipe/current-students/vocational-experiences.html

04/15/2026

St. Louis Blues - we're excited about this partnership! Inclusion matters!

The St. Louis Blues are partnering with the NHL and P-X-P for a first-of-its-kind alternate broadcast in American Sign Language (ASL) during Tuesday night’s game against the Pittsburgh Penguins.