About Us:
Waigand Wheels is more than a delivery service; we’re a vehicle for opportunity.
We create meaningful, community-based experiences for adults with developmental disabilities—our Wagoneers—to build skills, form relationships, and contribute their talents throughout St. Louis.
Through partnerships with local businesses and organizations, Wagoneers take on real-world, community-facing roles that provide valuable services while building confidence, experience, and connection.
The result is a model where everyone contributes. Wagoneers gain a sense of purpose and belonging; our partners strengthen their community impact; and together, we help build a more inclusive St. Louis where every individual has the opportunity to be valued for what they bring.
OUR MISSION
Waigand Wheels creates meaningful opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities to bring their talents into the community—building skills, confidence, relationships, and a lasting sense of purpose and belonging.
For many young adults, graduation is an exciting beginning—filled with new opportunities, friendships, work, and greater independence. But for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, it can also bring uncertainty as the structure, routines, and connections of school begin to disappear.
As Lance Waigand approached graduation, his family found themselves asking a simple but difficult question: What comes next?
They wanted what every family wants—a future where Lance could have purpose, build relationships, continue growing, and contribute his talents.
But meaningful opportunities weren't always easy to find. So they started creating them.
Waigand Wheels began in 2018 with a few deliveries and a belief that Lance—and others like him—had something valuable to offer. Today, those first deliveries have grown into community-based work experiences, service projects, gardens, social opportunities, and partnerships throughout St. Louis—all designed to give Wagoneers opportunities to contribute, connect, grow, and be valued for what they bring.
OUR STORY
It all started with L.G. Waigand...
OUR BELIEF
Disability Is A Matter Of Perception
We believe every person has something valuable to contribute. Disability does not define what someone can offer—the opportunity to use their strengths does.
If you can do one thing well, you are needed by someone. Our job is to recognize those abilities, create opportunities for them to matter, and build a community that sees people for what they bring—not what may hold them back.
Purpose
Everyone deserves meaningful opportunities to use their abilities and feel valued for their contributions
Growth
Confidence grows through real experiences, responsibility, practice, and encouragemet
Connection
Strong communities are built when people have opportunities to know and learn from one another
Potential
We focus on what each Wagoneer can do—and create opportunities for those abilities to shine.
OUR TEAM
The People Behind The Mission
Our Wagoneers
Wagoneers are the individuals who participate in Waigand Wheels programs and bring their own strengths, interests, personalities, and goals to every experience. They are encouraged to make choices, build relationships, develop their abilities, and contribute in ways that are meaningful to them.
Our Pioneers
Pioneers are the caregivers and support professionals who accompany and support our Wagoneers. They provide individualized guidance while encouraging independence, participation, and growth, working alongside Waigand Wheels to help each Wagoneer get the most from their experience.
Our Staff
Our staff bring Waigand Wheels programs to life by developing community partnerships, coordinating experiences, and supporting Wagoneers as they participate. They help create welcoming environments where individuals can explore their strengths, build skills, connect with others, and take on meaningful roles in the community.
Our Leadership
Our Board of Directors provides the leadership, guidance, and stewardship that help Waigand Wheels grow responsibly and remain focused on our mission. Their experience and commitment help strengthen our organization, expand opportunities, and shape a sustainable future for Waigand Wheels.
OUR PARTNERS
IT TAKES A COMMUNITY TO CREATE OPPORTUNITY
Product Partners
Local businesses and mission-driven organizations provide some of the products we deliver, serve, and feature through our programs. Their products help create meaningful work and real-world experiences for our Wagoneers.
Program Partners
Community organizations connect individuals with opportunities to participate, volunteer, learn, and contribute within our programs. These partnerships help expand access, build skills, and create inclusive experiences in the community.
Workplace Partners
Businesses and organizations create opportunities by hosting the Community Cart, ordering lunches, using our courier services, and welcoming Wagoneers into their workplaces. These partnerships provide meaningful work, connection, and visibility in the community.