Paraquad

Today is , a day dedicated to raising awareness of multiple sclerosis (MS) and recognizing the millions of people worldwide living with this complex neurological condition.

MS can affect mobility, energy, vision, cognition, and many other aspects of daily life, but it does not define a person's potential, independence, or contribution to their community.

At Paraquad, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live independently, access their community, and pursue the life they choose.

We offer a MS Support Group once a month - on the first Monday of every month at 10:30 a.m. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Kiland Sampa at [email protected]. Learn more at paraquad.org/independent-living-services/peer-services

📢 We're Hiring: Executive Assistant

Are you highly organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about supporting mission-driven work?

Paraquad is seeking an Executive Assistant to provide administrative support to our CEO and leadership team while helping ensure the smooth operation of our organization. This is an opportunity to play a key role behind the scenes at a nonprofit dedicated to advancing equity and independence for people with disabilities.

At Paraquad, you'll join a team committed to advocacy, accessibility, and creating a more inclusive community for all.

Ready to make a difference?

Apply today: https://paraquad.aaimtrack.com/jobs/1306186

🚨🚨Take action now!🚨🚨

A lawsuit currently working its way through the federal courts, Texas v. Kennedy (commonly called the "504 lawsuit"), poses a serious threat to the rights of people with disabilities in Missouri and across the country.

The case targets a 2024 federal rule designed to help people with disabilities live, work, and receive services in their own communities rather than in institutional settings. That rule is grounded in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the landmark Supreme Court decision in Olmstead v. L.C., both of which affirm that people with disabilities should not be forced into institutions when they can and want to live in their communities. For decades, courts have recognized that Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act work in concert to protect that right.

Missouri remains one of only seven states still participating in this lawsuit. That number tells an important story. Of the 18 original plaintiff states, more than half have already withdrawn, including Indiana and South Dakota, which dropped out most recently. State after state has reconsidered its position and chosen to step back. Missouri should do the same.

Paraquad is calling on Attorney General Catherine Hanaway to follow the lead of Indiana, South Dakota, and the other states that have withdrawn, and drop Missouri from this lawsuit. A ruling against this rule could erode the Olmstead protections that many Missourians with disabilities depend on to live full, self-directed lives in their communities. We believe that people with disabilities deserve to live with dignity alongside their neighbors, and that no one should be forced out of their community simply to access the services they need.

If you share these concerns, please take a moment to contact Attorney General Hanaway's office. The more you can personalize your message with your own story or perspective, the greater the impact.

And don't forget to share this message with your network.

Contact information for Attorney General Hanaway's office: ago.mo.gov/about-us/contact-us/