Tribute to Max Starkloff

Posted on February 11, 2011 by pedro

"The legacy left by Max Starkloff is reflected in the thousands of individuals who today are living fulfilling and independent lives," said Robert Huskey, Paraquad board chair. In paying tribute to Starkloff, Huskey said the organization is continuing Starkloff’s commitment to people with disabilities, providing services annually to more than 4,000 participants in its 22 programs.

Starkloff, who founded Paraquad in 1970, was a pioneering leader in the disability movement in St. Louis and nationally. "Max’s spirit and dedication led to groundbreaking advancements, particularly the establishment of independent living centers so that people with disabilities could access the resources and skills to be fully integrated into all aspects of society," Huskey said.

Paraquad was founded in 1970 by Max and Colleen Starkloff. It was one of the first 10 federally-funded independent living centers in the country. Starkloff led Paraquad for 33 years building the organization into the largest provider of services to people with disabilities in the St. Louis region.