Chapter President's Report
Dear Colonial Chapter Members,
It is a great honor to serve as President of the Board of Directors of the Colonial Chapter once again. Having been a part of the disabled community for many years, I was elected to the board in 2018, and over the past seven years, I have witnessed and contributed to the incredible growth of our Chapter.
The Colonial Chapter Board is composed of nine dedicated and accomplished individuals who represent the interests of our members. We are committed to being a best-practice board, focused on listening to our members, refining our processes, and supporting our staff with a clear vision to guide our work.
This is an exciting time to be in a leadership role within the Chapter. Ideas that were once envisioned have now gained momentum, and we have seen growth across every area of the Chapter— including the MS Program, Women Veterans Program, Educational Programs (HEART), Sports and Recreational Program, Member and Caregiver initiatives, staff development, and, most importantly, the benefits provided to our members.
As we move into 2025, the Colonial Chapter Board has set a clear strategic direction for the future. We are focused on expanding our membership, exploring new and innovative programming, amplifying our resources, and strengthening our mission. We will work to bring together nonprofits, businesses, and funders to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and drive collective action. Our goal remains to increase support for the paralyzed veterans and advocate for issues that matter to us all. We will continue to ensure the value of our member benefits, enhance member satisfaction, and promote diversity within our membership.
The core purpose of our Chapter is to harness the strengths of our board, staff, and members to create exceptional opportunities. As board president, I am committed to ensuring that we remain loyal to this vision and continue to build meaningful results. I am deeply grateful for your role in our shared vision for the Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, and I look forward to the amazing things we will achieve together.
Respectfully,
Matt Matthew C. Peeling President & National Director Paralyzed Veterans of America, Colonial Chapter
Executive Director's Report
As the Executive Director of the Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, it is both a privilege and an honor to work alongside our dedicated leadership team. Together, we are focused on delivering meaningful, measurable outcomes that not only transform the Chapter but also further our mission. Our continued priority is to provide essential programs and support to our members while enhancing the well-being of veterans, their families, and the larger community.
Since joining the Chapter in August 2017, I have seen firsthand the importance of revitalizing both our staff and community to fulfill our mission of supporting and empowering the 231 members we serve. By assessing and improving our operations and programs, we have laid the foundation for a stronger, more sustainable future.
Eight years later, I am proud to report that we have made substantial progress in three critical areas: Members, Mission, and Programs. With this solid foundation, the Colonial Chapter is poised for continued growth and measurable success in 2025 and beyond.
A primary focus has been to strengthen our membership and ensure every member feels connected and supported. To this end, we have implemented a comprehensive outreach program, engaging members through phone calls, emails, and letters. We remain committed to maintaining these connections and expanding our outreach efforts moving forward.
Rooted in our mission to restore hope and quality of life to veterans, their families, and caregivers, we continue to enhance the health and well-being of our members. We offer a wide range of programs, including education, information, referrals, and various therapeutic resources—medical, physical, psychological, and recreational—to support veterans in living fulfilling lives.
Additionally, we are expanding and refining the programs that have contributed to the Chapter’s success, such as Membership, Advocacy and Legislation, Sports and Recreation, Communications, Mentoring, and Service. Two notable accomplishments include the launch of our MS and Women Veterans Programs, designed to provide critical resources, foster connections, and create peer-to-peer support. This year, we plan to introduce a new program for caregivers and families, modeled after our MS and Women Veterans Programs. We are currently seeking a Caregiver to chair this important initiative.
It is a true honor to serve as Executive Director of the Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America. Together, with an entrepreneurial mindset and a focus on tangible outcomes, we are working toward the realization of the Chapter’s goals.
Thank you for being a vital part of the Colonial Chapter family. It truly takes a community to achieve success.
Sincerely
Jo Ann Bedsworth Executive Director
Colonial Chapter, Paralyzed Veterans of America
JANUARY
Eddie Belton 01/01
Steven Jones 01/01
Frederick Craw 01/02
Ibraham Hashi 01/02
Terry Laurenzi 01/03
Robert Eastman 01/04
Walter Reifsnyder 01/05
Desiree Young 01/06
Lori Mininger-Costello 01/08
Debra Hazzard 01/09
Thurman Fegans 01/11
Robert Smith 01/12
Elisabeth Carus 01/13
Thomas Meyer 01/14
Elmer Titus 01/15
Paul Hamilton 01/15
Laurence Lutman 01/16
Wallace Daniels 01/16
Ronald Koeing 01/16
Sara Baraowski 01/18
Rodney Lee 01/21
Dante Proflli 01/25
Terry Zimmerman 01/25
John Rinarelli 01/26
Betty Geer 01/27
Jimmy Davis 01/27
Nathan Dewalt 01/28
Joseph Taureck 01/29
Ronald Linemuth 01/30
Adolph Blauhut 01/30
BIRTHDAYS
FEBRUARY
Patrick Burns 02/02
Wesley Redd 02/04
Lisa Markland 02/05
Anthony Malat 02/05
Timothy Brennan 02/06
Theordore Kornicki 02/07
Duane Claytor 02/07
Johnny Harrison 02/09
Craig Duncan 02/11
Hazel Rodriguez 02/12
David Collins 02/13
David Timberman 02/13
Douglas Carmon 02/13
Jeffrey McNeil 02/13
Earl Richardson 02/14
Richard Stern 02/16
Gerald Baker 02/17
Joseph Morgan 02/21
Cynthia Baker 02/24
Crystal Young-Terrell 02/26
Samuel Dickinson 02/26
Charles Gilpatrick 02/28
MARCH
Brandon Deen 03/02
Michael Spencer 03/03
Theodore Flaxman 03/04
Jai Johnson 03/05
Alfred Watson 03/06
Robert Reuter 03/07
Ray Allen Huskins 03/09
Sara Campbell 03/12
Ann Adair 03/13
Douglas Pierce 03/16
Julian Richardson 03/19
Lawrence Shinaberry 03/19
Trish Hopkins 03/20
John Pepe 03/21
Donald Ladouceur 03/24
Charles Carter 03/25
John Rine 03/25
Robert Duncan 03/28
Cecil Gold 03/30
Carl Davis 03/31
Nelson Locklear 03/31
APRIL
Stephen Mashington 04/01
Richard Evans 04/04
Christopher Abell 04/07
Donald Renne 04/09
Charles Branson 04/11
Gary Jackson 04/11
Justin McGarrity 04/11
Francis Kearns 04/12
Ella Robinson 04/15
Robert Nabors 04/16
Fray Fuller 04/18
Adrian Watkins 04/21
Matthew Peeling 04/21
Marcus Murray 04/22
Ventura Catala 04/24
Wayne Beachy 04/27
Donald Bilder 04/29
Joseph Osowski 10/12
Wayne Wilson 10/12
Robert Corsa 11/12
Colonial PVA Programs
OPEN TO EVERYONE
MS Program
Host Jerrod Harris and Co-Host Jennifer Small produce and deliver monthly Teams meetings that takes our members on a journey plus connects them to their peers. You get to hear from your peers about living and managing their MS, and they are known to have guest speakers who give resources and support for navigating everyday life.
Women Veterans Program
Colonial Chapter of the PVA provides an opportunity for women veterans to form bonds, share experiences, remind the community and themselves that they served too! Chair Betty Geer and Co-Chair Kathleen Fitzpatrick have virtual meetings on the first Tuesday of every month on Zoom.
Weekly "Chill & Chat"
Looking to take a coffee break every week and talk with others in the Colonial Family? Looking for a place to just pop in and listen to others for inspiration? Join Jennifer Small and others every Monday from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm EST. on Microsoft Teams. Here, you can discuss whatever is on your mind cause sometimes, communication outside of your circle is good for the soul.
Colonial PVA Programs
OPEN TO EVERYONE
Colonial Creators
Colonial Creators provides opportunities to connect and encourages participants by sharing and exploring creativity. They foster growth and the difference and perspectives, helping each other experience different creative arts. All supplies and events are provided by the Colonial Chapter. Meetings are the 3rd Wednesday of every month at 7:00 pm EST on Teams
Gearhead Club
The Colonial Chapter's Gearhead Club meets monthly to discuss anything with a motor and They are planning to attend some car shows and races in the future. Meetings are held on Teams the first Wednesday of every month at 7:00 pm EST. Come by and enjoy the fellowship.
Outdoor Adventure Club
Are you an outdoor enthusiast? Enjoy the great outdoors with your Colonial family! Do you enjoy fishing, hunting, sailing, rock climbing, skiing, camping and more, then this is the group for you! The club meets every 2nd Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm EST on Teams. They are planning some fishing and boating during the summer.
SUPPORT CARETAKER
Virtual Support Space
Join us for a Virtual Caretaker Support Space hosted by the Colonial Chapter PVA, open to all PVA caregivers and their families. This support space offers:
• Emotional Support: A space for connection and mutual encouragement.
• Education: Insightful guest speakers to share valuable knowledge.
• Empowerment: Empowerment through shared experiences and peer support.
• Social: Build meaningful connections within the PVA community.
Join us on April 24th, 2024 at 7:00 pm on Teams Meeting ID: 225 584 210 327 Passcode: jp9RT76k Dial In: Call 929-352-1921 Conference ID: 490 863 253#
NSO UPDATE FROM JOSEPH WEEKS
I have been a PVA National Service Officer for almost 7 years. I am currently the East North Area manager and I am responsible for overseeing the PVA Service Offices in Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Togus, Boston, Manhattan, Syracuse, Brockton, Bronx, and East Orange. I also continue to do outreach at the Philadelphia, Lebanon, Coatesville, and Wilkes Barre VAMC’s while maintaining an active caseload.
Our primary mission is to advocate for Veterans who have a spinal cord injury or spinal cord disease. The Veterans we assist are comprised of members (M), those eligible for membership (ME), survivors, and nonmembers (NM).
In 2024, the East North area added 328 new clients, 276 of them are eligible for membership. As a result of the claims we filed, the offices secured 34.3 million dollars in monetary benefits for our clients; 96 percent of the awarded money went to M/MEs. This figure does not account for the monetary value we have saved our clients by ensuring VA provides them with quality & timely health care, needed durable medical equipment, and home/vehicle modifications allowing them to maintain an independent lifestyle.
Annual Benefits Increase
The following benefits and grants have increased since my last report. Here are the 2022-2023 valuations.
• Compensation increased by 2.5 percent
• Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) - $121,812
• Special Housing Adaptations (SHA)-$ 24,045
• Automobile Grant-$26,417.20
• Single Clothing Allowance – $ 1024.50
If you have questions about your eligibility for these benefits, please contact us and we would be happy to explain the criteria to you.
PACT Act and Toxic Exposure Information
On January 14, 2025, The Department of Veterans Affairs added chronic leukemias, multiple myelomas, myelodysplastic syndromes, myelofibrosis, urinary bladder, ureter, and related cancers presumptive for service connection for:
Gulf War Veterans: Veterans who served in Somalia or the Southwest Asia theater of operations (which includes Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the neutral zone between Iraq and Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, the Gulf of Aden, the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Sea, the Red Sea, and the airspace above these locations) during the Persian Gulf War on or after Aug. 2, 1990.
Post-9/11 Veterans: Veterans who served in Afghanistan, Iraq, Djibouti, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, or Uzbekistan and the airspace above these locations during the Gulf War on or after Sept. 11, 2001. This includes Veterans who served at the Karshi-Khanabad (K2) base in Uzbekistan after Sept. 11, 2001.
If you need to file a claim for one of the updated presumptive condition, it can be done by either submitting a new claim or a supplemental claim. If a Veteran was previously denied benefits for a condition now on the presumptive list, then a supplemental claim would be submitted. Also, if a Veteran passed away from one of the diseases on the presumptive list, the widow may now be eligible to file for Dependency Indemnity Compensation (DIC).
If you or a loved one experienced toxic exposure while serving in the military, we urge you to reach out to a PVA accredited Service Officer. Please note that with the PACT Act, many predatory organizations have appeared and are charging exorbitant fees for their services. Paralyzed Veterans of America has never and will never charge for our services as it is our mission to ensure that every Veteran receives the benefits they earned. Contact a PVA Accredited Service Officer today.
Please reach out to me at josephw@pva.org or call me at 202-416-1257.
COLONIAL PVA WOMEN VETERANS
GROUP
During our recent meeting, we had an enriching discussion on the various resources available to veterans, followed by an overview of upcoming Colonial PVA activities. Members shared personal experiences with multiple sclerosis and interactions with the Veterans Administration and healthcare providers. We explored the potential for a peer mentoring training program within the PVA organization and considered featuring announcements of our online programs in the PVA National Office's newsletter for members-at-large. We're also thrilled to announce that our meetings will now feature guest speakers. Our next speaker, Juliet Pierce, RN from PVA Medical Services, will present on swallowing challenges for members living with MS and spinal cord injuries during our March 4, 2025 meeting.
If anyone has an idea for a guest speaker, please email Betty Geer (bettyg127@gmail.com) Finally, we discussed collaborating with other nonprofits for events and even considered hosting a virtual "bring your dog" event. These loyal companions help reduce anxiety, alleviate symptoms of PTSD, and offer a constant source of comfort and reassurance.
Eastern/6pm Central.
MS CORNER
By: Jennifer Small
Stepping Beyond My Comfort Zone: A Journey with
MS, Mental Health, and Advocacy
I’m Jennifer Small, a wife, mother, Army Veteran, and PVA Colonial Chapter member. I’ve lived with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for 28 years, managing both its physical challenges and the depression and anxiety that often come with it.
The Mental Toll of MS
MS-related depression and anxiety stem from nerve damage, medications, and stress. The unpredictability of symptoms can be overwhelming, often leading to isolation. I know this firsthand. I let anxiety control my life, avoiding appointments, social interactions, and challenges. But isolation only made things worse.
Finding Purpose Through Action
A turning point came when I became an empty nester. With time on my hands and emotions I could no longer ignore, I knew I had to prioritize my mental health. A quote resonated deeply: “Growth begins where your comfort zone ends.” I had to push past fear and take action.
Medication alone wasn’t enough, so I gave therapy another chance; this time through Telehealth, where I found a therapist I truly connected with. Inspired by the words, “When you don’t know what to do for yourself, do something for someone else”, I got involved with PVA. Encouraged by fellow member Jerrod Harris, I took on leadership roles, becoming Co-Chair of the PVA Colonial Chapter MS Committee, Chair of Colonial Creators, and a Board Member of the PVA Colonial Chapter. I also trained as a peer mentor with the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation and the National MS Society and started hosting PVA’s weekly Chill n Chat calls. For the first time in years, I felt seen, heard, and empowered.
Embracing Challenges
Stepping out of my comfort zone changed everything. I discovered a passion for advocacy at PVA’s Legislative Seminar, found healing through adaptive sports, and built lasting friendships across the country. Activities like rowing, cycling, water skiing, and art therapy restored my confidence and sense of purpose. Alpine sit-skiing was especially transformative; allowing me to experience the freedom of movement again, as if I were able-bodied. I’ve continued to explore new adaptive sports and advocacy opportunities that challenge and inspire me.
Moving Forward
I still battle depression and anxiety, but now I have tools to manage them. Helping others has helped me heal. This journey wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.
I challenge you to step beyond your comfort zone. As Eleanor Roosevelt said, “Do one thing every day that scares you.” It just might change your life.
If you’re struggling, reach out. Veterans in crisis can contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1), visit VeteransCrisisLine.net, or text 838255. You are not alone.
VETS SAFE TRAVEL ACT SIGNED INTO LAW!
Jason Spohn - Marketing Director, Colonial PVA
In a significant step toward honoring and supporting U.S. veterans, the Veterans Expedited TSA Screening (VETS) Safe Travel Act was signed into law. This bipartisan legislation aims to simplify air travel for veterans who have been wounded in service, ensuring they receive the recognition and accommodations they deserve.
The VETS Safe Travel Act, introduced in Congress with broad bipartisan support, allows disabled veterans to enroll in the TSA PreCheck program at no cost. TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program that enables expedited security screening, eliminating the need to remove shoes, belts, and certain items during airport security checks. This accommodation addresses the unique challenges faced by disabled veterans, such as mobility issues and prosthetics, making air travel less stressful and more accessible.
The act reflects a collective acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by veterans, particularly those who have sustained physical injuries during their service. Previously, many disabled veterans faced hurdles when navigating airport security, often enduring long lines and invasive screenings. By offering complimentary enrollment in TSA PreCheck, the VETS Safe Travel Act ensures these individuals can travel with dignity and ease.
The Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), as well as several other Veteran advocacy organizations, played a pivotal role in the bill's passage, highlighting the necessity of this measure to Congress. Lawmakers across the political spectrum praised the act as a meaningful way to honor veterans’ service and improve their quality of life.
“Veterans have sacrificed so much for our freedom, and the least we can do is make their lives a little easier when they travel,” said one of the bill’s sponsors. The legislation also underscores the government’s commitment to veterans’ welfare, aiming to build a more inclusive society for those who served.
As the VETS Safe Travel Act takes effect, eligible veterans are encouraged to enroll in the TSA PreCheck program by providing proof of disability and service. Stay tuned for more information on as we receive it.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Paul Stewart
Paul Stewart served in the United States Marine Corp for approximately 1 month. While training on Parris Island, Paul became ill and was diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis shortly after. Suffering from a partially damaged spinal cord (incomplete para) he was honorably discharged due to medical reasons. Paul now requires the use of braces or a walker when traveling short distances, and when it's time for sports play or taking in the sights, Paul uses his custom wheelchair. "In a way, I see this as a blessing" he says. When asked why, Paul states "my disability has taught me a different way of life. I am married to my best friend from the other side of the world Kharen (Karen) if you are trying to figure out how to say her name LOL. We have had several dog children in the past 22 years. Like people, our dogs had very different personalities to each other." Paul first became a member of the National PVA in August 1992.
Joining PVA
Paul first became a member of PVA in August 1992. He started with the Eastern PVA, in 1995, he transferred to PVA Southeastern Chapter due to moving out of state.
In 2024, Paul decided to make a change and transferred over to the Colonial Chapter PVA. "At National events, I use to interreact with Colonial members constantly, shortly after I started taking part in their virtual clubs such as Gearhead, Creators, and Outdoor Adventure Club.
From the moment I started attending these meetings, I was treated like a member of their chapter as they welcomed me with open arms, making the move to become a member only made sense." When asked about his favorite program at Colonial, Paul stated, "I don't have just one program I like, all of the Colonial programs have the same commonality and that is the feeling of inclusion".
Hobbies
The things I enjoy is keeping busy and I get myself into multiple sports because once I start, I usually get hooked into them. Because I like learning about them, it is hard to focus specifically on just one. If I had to select my 3 favorite sports to play, it would be fishing, curling and softball. Once of my biggest hobbies is music and I enjoy a wide variety. I can list to Opera then go to punk, then rock. I also have a hobby of collecting alcohol from different places in the world.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Continued
"If you were to get stuck on an island, what would be the 3 things you would bring with you and why?"
Paul replied, "If I was stuck on an island, I am hoping it is a tropical island with edible vegetation already. The 3 items I would bring are my immediate family (dog and wife), a machete, braided rope. The family is for obvious reasons; the braided rope can be used for multiple purposes and the machete for security as well as it's multiple uses."
My Message to you
"To make an impression in life, it doesn't have to be big or to a large group. Sometimes, the smallest impression makes the biggest differentce." - Paul Stewart, Colonial Chapter Member
On an Island Update from Colonial Chapter Secretary Jerrod Harris
I hope this message finds you well and in great spirits. As we move forward into a new chapter of growth and opportunity, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the exciting endeavors that lie ahead for our chapter.
Over the past 6 months we’ve made remarkable strides together. Your commitment, enthusiasm, and collective energy have brought us closer to achieving the vision we set out with. It is because of each of you that our chapter continues to thrive, and for that, I am truly grateful.
Looking ahead, we have a number of exciting initiatives, projects, and events that I believe will continue to strengthen our bond and deepen our impact within the community.
The success of our chapter relies on each one of you, and your continued involvement will be key to ensuring that we meet the challenges and embrace the opportunities before us. As your Secretary, I will do my utmost to keep you informed, supported, and engaged as we progress into the future.
Let’s continue to work together with the same passion and dedication that has defined us thus far. The best is yet to come!
Thank you for your ongoing support, and please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or ideas. I look forward to seeing all of you at some point in the near future.
COLONIAL HOLIDAY PARTY
Whether you’re seeking career growth, completing a degree, enhancing professional skills, or simply exploring new areas of interest, Saylor Academy has something for you. You can earn digital certificates of completion, qualify for tuition-free college credit through Saylor’s partner schools, or even begin an affordable, flexible degree program.
The courses are an invaluable resource for participants in the Colonial Chapter’s Hoskins Education and Reemployment Training (HEART) program and have proven to be an essential tool for members of the Colonial Chapter, helping them access education they might not have otherwise had.
Saylor Academy’s courses are carefully crafted by expert educators, drawing on a wide range of free and open online resources. We prioritize a self-paced learning environment designed to closely mirror the experiences of a traditional college classroom. Certificates are free, there are no deadlines, and you control your learning timeline.
• Discover what sets Saylor’s certificates apart
• Explore opportunities for earning college credit through the courses
• Browse extensive course catalog
• Learn how to start your first course
• Get acquainted with partner schools
• Find answers to your questions in our Help Center
With a new Congress and a new Administration in Washington, D.C., PVA’s priorities for 2025 are focused on ensuring access to the care and benefits PVA members have earned and the civil rights protections they deserve. We look forward to working with our champions to move these priorities forward throughout the year.
Our priorities for 2025 are as follows:
· Protect VA's Specialized Health Care Services
· Increase Access to Long-Term Services and Supports for Veterans with SCI/D
· Improve Veterans’ Financial Security
· Enhance Access to Health Care Services for Veterans with SCI/D
· Defend the Freedoms of Veterans with Disabilities
MEMBER REIMBURSEMENT
All chapter members will be entitled to $100.00 per fiscal year to use towards activities such as dining out with your spouse, going to the movies, attending events, hotel stays, vacation expenses, hobby supplies, etc. Receipts for such activities will need to be dated and mailed to the Colonial Chapter office (700 Barksdale Rd, Suite 2, Newark, DE 19711) by the end of the fiscal year (09/30/2025). Receipts dated before 10/01/2024 will not be accepted. For more information, please contact the chapter office at 302-861-6671.
UPCOMING BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS
The Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America meets every 2nd Wednesday of the month in person or via Microsoft Teams. Social Hour is from 09:50 a.m. - 10:50 a.m. with the meeting starting at 11:00 a.m. sharp. Upcoming meeting dates are: February 12th, 2025; March 12th, 2025, April 9th, 2025, May 14th, 2025.
Accessible Camping
By Paul Stewart Colonial Chapter Member
Have you thought about going out and enjoying the great outdoors. There are different options to do this. You can camp in a tent, RV or cabin. Each one may have some barriers. The more accessibility you may need is more work and time to make it fun for you and others in your party. Tent camping is next to just sleeping in the open on the ground. Depending on the tent camping, you are doing can be easy or complicated. Some locations may have tents already set up and all you need to do is set up the tent to your liking or needs. Then you can take the next step when you set up your own tent. Some tents can be easy to set up and others can be more of a challenge. It is great to have another person with you to make it easier. You can set up a tent from the wheelchair, but it does give some a challenge.
Camping by RV can be a good choice. You have all your items in the RV or Camper, and you may not need to move it from the vehicle to a tent or cabin. Yes, some items you may have in a vehicle. When using an RV or camper, you need to make sure it is level. Some campgrounds have concrete pads that you can park on. Sometimes the concrete pad is next to your RV or camper site.
Camping in a cabin is another option. Some cabins have been set up for accessibility. These are very few and far between. The cabins may not always meet the needs we may need. For example, some cabins have beds, and the mattresses are very thin and for some people this may be a problem for them.
In all the camping styles mentioned above there are barriers we must face. Access the area. Cabins might not have ramps, and some ramps may be steep. Handrails might not be fully secured. Tent and RV camping the ground may not be very level. Access around the parks has many different barriers. Getting to the bathhouse, accessing the building. If the is a lake, it doesn’t always mean to have an accessible route to it. Some of the other amenities don’t always meet your needs.
Prior to camping there is research you should consider. If you are looking for accessible spaces, call in advance to make sure they meet your needs. Since the spaces are limited, find out what the minimum time of notice is to get the location. Look into all that you can do there. To make good memories, it does help to do the research. If you have problems keep track of it. Share your reviews with others. By sharing your reviews do it in a positive way. You can use your previous experiences to see if any information you shared with the owners. At the same time, you really like the location, but there may be some things you can do to make your trip better.
If you enjoy camping, you can try to camp on some military bases. I have done this, and I have had multiple experiences. I enjoyed camping at most of them. There have been campgrounds that needs work to them Beside sharing my experience with other I have also shared it to the staff.
Celebrating 100 Years of the VFW National Home
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the VFW National Home, a beacon of hope for military and veteran families since its founding in 1925. Established to provide a stable and supportive environment for the families of our nation's heroes, the National Home continues to uphold its mission of care, compassion, and community.
Originally founded to support the widows and orphans of World War I veterans, the National Home has since evolved to assist families facing hardships, offering housing, education, and vital resources to those in need. Located in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, this cherished institution provides military and veteran families with a place
As we reflect on a century of service, the Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) proudly honors the dedication of the National Home in transforming the lives of thousands. Their commitment to serving those who have sacrificed for our country aligns with our mission to advocate for and assist our fellow
The 100th anniversary is a time to celebrate the countless volunteers, donors, and staff who have made this legacy possible. It also serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to support military families, ensuring that the
Newsletter Article Submission
Hello everyone, I am Paul Stewart, I am working on articles for the PVA Colonial Chapter's Newsletter, The Ramp. The topic would go under "Understanding & Improving Your Wheelchair Life". I thought about it and to me, it just doesn't fit. We have members of both walking and using wheelchairs. Not all changes in society meets everyone's needs. Changes in the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) doesn't meet all standards for people.
You may ask why that is. Not all people have the same disabilities. This doesn't matter if you are complete or incomplete para or quad, having the same spinal cord injury or disorder.
My suggestion of the topic name is "Understanding and Improving your Independence" or "Understanding and Improving Your Life After a Disability or Disorder". The Newsletter is for all of our members. I would love to get your thoughts. Besides sharing your thoughts and the topic, I would like to share your experience in traveling. I know we may have a lot of horror stories while traveling. We also need to hear about traveling experiences. If there were bad experiences, what did you do to make it better for the next time, or even for that travel experience. If you would like to share photos this would be great.
Please send your submissions to Jbedsworth@colonialpva.org or call the office at 302-861-6671
VETERAN DEALS
Michaels Stores offer a 15% OFF MILITARY DISCOUNT on the entire in-store purchase including sale items for active duty, retired military guard reservists, and veterans. This Military Discount is in store only and includes sale items. Must show valid Military ID.
DEAL ALERT
The Carhartt Discount Program works online or in store. AT Checkout, click ID.ME to verify your Veteran status. Once validated, your 15% Discount is then applied. It will stay linked and can be used toward future purchases as well. In Store: Present ID.ME eligibility card during checkout for the 15% discount to be applied.
New Balance is offering online a 15% off discount when you verify through ID.ME. This deal is for Veterans, teachers, hospital or medical employee, first responders, government employee or over the age of 60. Go to www.newbalance.com/idme to shop today.
PVA Awareness Month originated as a one-day observance in honor of Paralyzed Veterans Recognition Day, which President Ronald Reagan declared in 1986. After requests from PVA members and Chapters across the country, the celebration was expanded to a full month to raise awareness not only of the challenges faced by America’s Veterans living with spinal cord injury and disease (SCI/D), but also of the programs and services available to help improve their lives. Today, many years after its inception, PVA continues to celebrate Awareness Month as a reminder of how far we’ve come in supporting paralyzed Veterans and all individuals with disabilities—and how much further we have yet to go in helping these heroes regain their freedom and independence.
