Health & Fitness
Paraquad Proud to Recognize Leaders in Accessibility - Nominations Open for 2013 Awards
Paraquad will recognize area businesses for their efforts to make St. Louis more accessible at their second annual Accessible St. Louis Awards on Nov. 14, 2013.
The following was a column written by Paraquad CEO, Aimee Wehmeier, in the St. Louis Business Journal on May 17, 2013.
About 15% of all people—including consumers—have a disability. Additionally, every day for the next 17 years, 10,000 people will turn 65. That’s a significant, growing population of people who may base their spending on which businesses best accommodate their needs.
Paraquad supports businesses to become more accessible through education, assessment, and supported employment opportunities. We also proudly recognize successful businesses in the community that are models of accessibility and inclusion through a special annual ceremony.
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The AccessibleSTL Awards, which take place on Thursday, November 14, 2013, will “Shine the Light” on companies and individuals who are leaders in promoting greater accessibility for people with disabilities. We are currently accepting nominations for this year’s winners.
Our inaugural event last year honored community leaders committed to serving people with all types of disabilities. Schnuck Markets, Inc., for example, was recognized for the design of its stores, which promotes convenient shopping for people with physical disabilities, and its hiring practices, including its longtime participation in the Summer Work Experience Program (SWEP) for youths with development disabilities. Schnucks has been a great partner with Paraquad because they believe in the value of serving everyone equally.
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We also proudly recognized the St. Louis Cardinals, Home Depot, Metro Transit, Regions Bank, and Sen. Joan Bray.
Paraquad is proud to highlight the successes of these award winners, and we look forward to sharing the good work of our 2013 AccessibleSTL winners, as well. Please consider submitting a nomination for your company or someone you work with who values accessibility for people with mobility, hearing, vision or cognitive disabilities. And don’t hesitate to contact Paraquad to learn how we can assist you in reaching out to new consumers or employees who can make your business more diverse and more successful.
To submit a nomination or learn more, please visit Paraquad online at www.paraquad.org.