Paraquad's Second Annual Starkloff Awards
The Second Annual Starkloff Awards were a great success. The Awards were presented to individuals and organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment and contribution to the independent living philosophy.
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Frank Lenior, Dana Nichols, and John Sondag
Mercy Hospital received the Starkloff Award for their work as a leading employer in the St. Louis area who offers above minimum wage, accessible transportation, a wide range of benefits and career advancement opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. One of the major principles of the Independent Living Movement is to expand employment of people with disabilities. Having a job gives us all a sense of self-worth and a feeling of contributing to society. In addition to hearing from Dana Nichols, Coordinator of Mercy’s Supported Employment Program, we heard from S.A. Carson, one of Mercy’s employees, who shared why he likes working at Mercy – “earning money”.
Mesha Tuscher, Danielle Tuscher and Francis Slay
Jim Tuscher was awarded the Starkloff Award posthumously. He was honored for his countless contributions to the disability community in Missouri and nationally. His daughter Danielle and granddaughter Mesha accepted the award on his behalf. Jim always said to “lead with the fire in your belly.”
John Sondag, Bob Huskey, and Bea Huskey
Bob Huskey, Board Chair at Paraquad, dedicated the Jim Tuscher Auditorium. Jim laid the foundation for an ongoing commitment to legislative advocacy, community outreach and training of new leaders. It is only fitting that the auditorium is dedicated as a space for peer support, trainings, advocacy, meetings with policy-makers and other gatherings of the disability rights community.
We thank all of our friends, family, advocates, and community members who attended, especially St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay and St. Louis County Executive Charlie Dooley, St. Louis Alderman Joe Vaccaro, and State Representatives Jeanette Mott Oxford.
Paraquad was awarded the Outstanding Local Government Achievement Award (OLGA) for Successful Public/Private or Public/Non-profit Venture for partnership in 6 North. Other honorees for this venture include: McCormack Baron Salazar, City of St. Louis, and the City of St. Louis Affordable Housing Commission.
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