Youth Group for Young Adults with Disabilities
Paraquad’s programming for young adults with disabilities empowers participants to explore independence concepts, find their voice and discover new ideas alongside their peers. Read on to learn how Paraquad’s teenage social groups near you teach valuable life skills during formative years.
Serving Young Adults with Disabilities Since 1985
Paraquad’s youth group provides a safe space for youth with disabilities to learn, express themselves and create connections within the community. While plenty of youth programs exist in the St. Louis area, ours is truly special.
We follow an independent living philosophy based on the idea that people with disabilities have a right to live independently and participate in their community. Rather than expecting people with disabilities to change, our team hopes to reduce societal barriers and empower participants to embrace independence. Our programming for young adults with disabilities delivers valuable education so that each participant gains the confidence needed to make their own decisions.
How It Works
Paraquad offers several teenage social groups near you that meet regularly. We currently have the capacity for 20 participants between the ages of 12 and 21. Generally, youth group members have a documented disability — but we always welcome young people without disabilities to join us in group activities.
Youth group meeting details include:
During the school year, meetings occur on the *third Saturday of every month from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
During the summer, participants are welcome to join Paraquad’s youth summer programs.
Transportation to and from youth group meetings is available free of charge.
*Please note that meeting times and dates are subject to change due to holidays, longer activities or planned outings.
What to Expect
Paraquad’s youth group educates young adults with disabilities, helps them find ways to overcome challenges and connects parents with valuable resources. Each meeting revolves around one topic, followed by a fun group activity, such as bowling or t-shirt decorating.
History & Law Lessons
Paraquad’s teenage social groups near you may include information about important historical events and civil rights laws, such as:
The Independent Living Movement: The treatment of people with disabilities has changed dramatically since the 1900s. People with disabilities advocated for change in employment, education and beyond — leading to many laws still in effect today.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): The ADA prohibits discrimination based on disability in several areas, such as employment, transportation and education. This law is hugely important, as it guarantees equal opportunities to participate in society.
Independent Skills Training
Paraquad’s programming for young adults with disabilities also incorporates independent living skills training, including lessons related to:
Self-Advocacy Skills: Like anyone else, people with disabilities need to recognize their value. We help young people use their voices confidently and teach them skills that will help them advocate for themselves.
The Transition to Adulthood: For youth in transition, adulthood can be scary. Paraqaud eases concerns by sharing information about pursuing higher education, getting a job and navigating government resources.
Group Outings
As part of our independent living philosophy, we believe young people with disabilities should engage with the world around them. For this reason, Paraquad’s teenage social groups near you include free outings for participants. Past activities have included trips to the Saint Louis Science Center and the Aquarium at Union Station.
How to Get Started
For more information on programming for young adults with disabilities, volunteering for Paraquad or enrolling in one of Paraquad’s Youth & Family Programs, contact Stephanie McDowell at 314-289-4265 or smcdowell@paraquad.org.