Paraquad

Consumer directed services is a medicaid-based program that provides personal care attendant services to individuals with disabilities, enabling them to live with greater independence in the community, rather than a nursing home. Services were provided to 357 clients.

Deaf way interpreting services provides interpreting services for people who are deaf and hard of hearing. This program was terminated in october 2023.

Independent living services - our guiding principle at Paraquad is the independent living philosophy, the belief that people with disabilities should integrate fully into society, have equal opportunities and maintain control of their lives. The youth & family staff will assist youth and their family to explore the youth's goals and their future. Youth & family services offer various ways for the youth to explore their independence within a safe and friendly environment. The proper assistive technology can help people with disabilities succeed in work and school, stay active and involved in their community, and can be essential to maintaining independence. Paraquad's assistive technology program helps people acquire and maintain the equipment that will benefit them. 1,267 individuals received independent living skills training through all of Paraquad programs. Independent living adult program provided services to 55 participants. The peer program offered support to 34 participants. Information and referral services were given to 3,094 individuals. 41 youth and their families receved services through monthly youth groups, summer camps, education advocacy and transition services. 11 participants used the telephone access program. 257 participants used the assistive technology reuse program. The agency additionally provides donated equipment, such as wheelchairs, walkers to individuals in need.

Employment services - Paraquad partners with participants to develop an individualized plan based on their employment goals. From entry level to professional positions, jobseekers have access to Paraquad's network of employers who are actively seeking qualified candidates with disabilities. As a part of the program of services: 25 participants had experiences in the summer work program, 76 participants received continuing education and tutoring services, 65 participants received placement assistance, and 13 participants received job coaching and retention services. Work incentives planning and assistance had 466 referrals and 212 participants received benefit counseling.

The stephen a. orthwein center facilitates lifelong fitness for individuals with disabilities and older adults who benefit from exercising in a supportive, adaptive environment. Our expert staff of adapted exercise specialists, comprised of both physical and occupational therapist, are able to meet the individual's needs and goals by utilizing the fully accessible gym and the state-of-the art equipment. The center enabled 354 participants to pursue their health and fitness goals.

The public policy and advocacy team works to develop and implement systems changes that promote independent living and eliminate or amend systemic barriers for people with disabilities. Paraquad is also committed to developing leadership in the disability community by providing customized trainings to individuals, groups and organizations on civic engagement, advocacy, and community organizing.