Numotion Foundation Supports Starkloff Disability Institute

The Numotion Foundation was recently proud to support Starkloff Disability Institute, a St. Louis-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2003 by Max and Colleen Starkloff and David Newburger to break down society’s barriers and build a more inclusive community.

Maggie Mahoney, Director of Communications at Starkloff Disability Institute provided the following impact story:

Empowering Possibility Through Disability Inclusion

For over 20 years, Starkloff Disability Institute has been transforming lives by creating pathways to inclusion, economic opportunity, and self-determination for people with disabilities. Thanks to the generous support of the Numotion Foundation and others, we continue to deliver high-impact, no-cost programs that help disabled youth and adults take control of their futures, succeed in their careers, and thrive.

In 2024 alone, Starkloff programs reached 124 adults, 90 college students, and 51 middle and high school students with disabilities—and the demand is only growing. These programs include Dream Big for youth, Access U for college students, and the Starkloff Career Academy for adult professionals. Each initiative equips participants with the tools, confidence, and connections they need to succeed in competitive professions.

One such success is Khalil, a high school senior who joined our Dream Big Career Exploration Camp this summer. Initially shy and unsure, Khalil—who uses a wheelchair and hearing aids—quickly found a community of peers, mentors, and role models. He explored careers at leading companies like Bayer where he discovered a love for plants and learned how his passion for technology and content creation can lead to a career almost anywhere. He even started learning ASL from fellow campers. As he wrapped up his presentation about his experience at the end of Camp, he shared, “I can’t wait for what’s out there for me in the future!”

Starkloff’s candidate programs, including Dream Big Camp, are intentionally disability-led and free of charge—removing financial barriers that so often stand in the way. Support from the Numotion Foundation helps make these programs possible. Together we are impacting dozens of young people and adults each year as they build confidence and explore bold futures.

“Youth with disabilities are not always given the same opportunities as their nondisabled peers,” says Lori Becker, CEO of Starkloff Disability Institute. “Support from the Numotion Foundation helps us reach more young people with disabilities through programs like Dream Big. It means we can deliver high-impact experiences that build confidence, foster disability pride, and spark new career ambitions. These opportunities help our participants see their own value—and imagine bold futures.”

Starkloff Disability Institute is proud to partner with the Numotion Foundation in building a world where disabled people not only belong, but lead.

Starkloff Disability Institute