Public Policy
Even with the passage of such laws as Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Fair Housing Amendments, and the Americans with Disabilities Act, many barriers still exist in education, housing, transportation, employment and health care for people with disabilities. As one of the four core services, advocacy is an integral part of Paraquad's programs and services. There are several ways that Paraquad staff actively advocate for independent living opportunities. For example, Independent Living Specialists work with participants to achieve self-advocacy goals; participants and youth group members are involved in advocacy events in the community; Paraquad staff organize grassroots networks and are members of advocacy coalitions. The goal of these advocacy initiatives is to make our communities free of architectural, communication and attitudinal barriers. When that is achieved, people with disabilities will be fully included in all aspects of community life, and therefore require much less direct service.
The Policy Department, in conjunction with the advocacy of all the staff members, works to develop and implement policies that promote independent living as well as to fight or amend policies that create barriers for people with disabilities. A variety of strategies are employed in pursuit of policy goals. Our department focuses on advocating for policies and programs that de-institutionalize people and create opportunities for full community participation; directing the Missouri Disability Vote Project; and organizing and mobilizing the grassroots disability community.
For additional information about Paraquad's programs or services, please contact Information and Referral at: 314/289-4200 (voice) or 314/ 289-4252 (TTY).
