Lisa Markland Prepares for 2028 Paralympics Photo By: Abigail Olear
Chapter President's Report
Dear Colonial Chapter Members & Volunteers
I am writing to formally announce my resignation from my position as President of the Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA). As some of you may know, I was nominated and elected as the National Secretary of PVA during the National Convention. In accordance with the PVA National By-Laws, I am unable to continue serving as Chapter President while holding this national position. Therefore, I will step down from my duties as President effective July 1, 2025, and a special election will be required to fill my role.
It has been a great honor to work alongside all of you on the Board. Serving as President has been a truly rewarding experience, and I am deeply grateful for the support each of you has offered me throughout my tenure. The talent and dedication within this Board, and within our organization, has been inspiring, and I am thankful for the opportunity to have worked with such a remarkable group of individuals over the past seven years.
The knowledge and experience I have gained during my time as Chapter President will stay with me and continue to serve me in all areas of my life. I wish the Colonial Chapter continued success in all its future endeavors. Thank you once again for your unwavering support, and I look forward to seeing the continued progress and accomplishments of the organization.
Yours sincerely,
Matthew Peeling
Matthew Peeling President Colonial Chapter, PVA
Executive Director's Report
What an incredible journey this past year has been! This time last year, we were celebrating the return of strong member involvement—and since then, we’ve grown even more connected and vibrant as a community.
We’ve made lasting memories and forged meaningful bonds with members and their families from Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Florida, South Carolina, and beyond. From Outreach to Events, Communications to Programs, members have stepped up in every area—engaging with peers, connecting with Chapter staff, and contributing alongside volunteers. Have you met some of them yet?
It’s no surprise that this year, out of 32 chapters, the Colonial Chapter received three prestigious national awards:
• The 2025 John M. Price Award for Most Outstanding Chapter, recognizing the wide array of free, inclusive programs we offer to our members.
• The Bob Webb Excellence in a Newsletter Award, honoring our member-focused newsletter that showcases our programs and features articles written by members themselves.
• The Chapter Volunteer Service Award, which celebrates our outstanding community of volunteers. With 230 members, our Chapter logged an astonishing 13,800 volunteer hours between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024. That averages out to 60 hours per member—WOW! This speaks volumes about the dedication and spirit of our member volunteers. We may be small, but we are mighty. Now, as we look ahead to the summer and beyond, we need you. The Colonial Chapter thrives on making the world more personal, accessible, and inclusive. We invite you to join your peers at chapter programs, peer meetings, and community events. Whether it’s at the Gallen Getaway, an outdoor adventure, or a virtual gathering, your presence helps us build stronger connections.
So, here’s our ask: greet, guide, host, and give—in whatever ways you can. Bringing our Mission and Vision to life requires both behind-the-scenes support and face-to-face engagement. Inside this newsletter, you’ll find upcoming events that are open and accessible to all members—hotels, meals, and activities included free.
Will you join us?
Will you invite your friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, and employers to get involved, too? Share this newsletter, send an email, spread the word. Together, let’s build a more inclusive world—and ensure that no veteran with spinal cord injury or disease is ever left behind.
Before I close, I want to take a moment to recognize two outstanding Colonial Chapter members:
Marcus Murray, a graduate of our HEART program and former PVA National Secretary, has been elected as one of PVA’s new National Vice Presidents. Marcus, it has been a joy to watch your journey, and I can’t wait to see all that you’ll accomplish in this new role.
Matthew Peeling, our current Chapter President, will serve until July 1, 2025, before stepping into his new role as PVA National Secretary. Matt, it’s been an honor to work alongside you and witness the growth of our chapter under your leadership. I know you’ll continue to do great things for the entire PVA family.
I’m deeply honored that the Colonial Chapter is helping connect veterans around the country—and that we’re advancing the Mission and Vision of the PVA together.
With gratitude and pride,
JoAnn Bedsworth
Executive Director
Colonial Chapter, Paralyzed Veterans of America
“Your Colonial Family”
BIRTHDAYS MAY
Linda Richardson 05/01
Martina Russell 05/03
Antoine Moore 05/03
Daniel Bolton 05/05
Dean Flanagan 05/07
Cindi Walker 05/07
Glenn Osborne 05/11
Delano Draine 05/13
Victor Diaz 05/13
Christopher Bryant 05/14
Robert Roundtree 05/19
Nancy Glowacki 05/20
Rodney Henning 05/21
Bryan McCrickerd 05/24
Philip Sudano 05/24
Anna Cherepnina 05/24
Benjamin Shahan 05/26
JUNE
Kenneth Swinehart 06/02
David Duncan 06/02
Kenneth Coppage 06/03
Milton Minus 06/06
Darin Cassell 06/06
Leroi Coit 06/08
Joan Simms-Ashbrook 06/08
Harry Crafton 06/10
David Ruffing 06/14
Michael Hellwig 06/15
Cheryl Goodman 06/22
Dylan Mackey 06/23
David Rively 06/24
Kathleen Mason 06/28
JULYAUGUST
Kenneth Archer 07/01
Daniel Lindsey 07/01
William Stump 07/01
Jerrod Harris 07/03
Tamika Campbell 07/04
Brian Augustyniak 07/05
Dwayne Curbeam 07/06
Jennifer Small 07/06
Nuvia Charles 07/06
Wayne Carraghan 07/08
Louis Bien 07/09
Stephen Rodgers 07/10
Jerome Johnson 07/11
Thomas Otte 07/12
Stanley Laskowski 07/14
Kathleen Fitzpatrick 07/15
Kenneth Atallian 07/16
Catherine Tolbert 07/17
Detlef Hartmann 07/20
Herbert Roberts 07/20
Jesse Rudgunas 07/22
Roger Evans 07/26
James Harrington 07/29
Charles Widdoes 07/31
Cori Countess 07/31
Daniel Czuczman 08/04
Thomas Rainier 08/04
Bernice Bocachinca 08/05
David Zell 08/06
Larry Feller 08/08
Charles Rawlings 08/09
Charles Auble 08/11
Joseph Pugh 08/11
Jake Belardo 08/12
Dale Miller 08/13
Ronald Sharer 08/14
Kenneth Jack 08/14
Jeffrey Brown 08/17
Roy Laudermilch 08/22
Robert Hubbard 08/22
Lisa Elijah 08/25
Andi Collins 08/25
Bernetta Lyons 08/26
Dale Mecouch 08/26
Joseph Osowski 10/12
Wayne Wilson 10/12
Robert Corsa 11/12
Gerard Reilly 03/06
John McCormick 04/04
Joseph Morgan 04/15
William Mullahy 04/19
Carl Huggins 05/13
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.
Lisa Markland Aiming For 2028 Gold
Twenty years ago I was training with the United States Paralympic Team for the Beijing 2008 Paralympics and was the top female Paralympic rifle shooter in the country. Unfortunately, I got very sick after an overseas trip playing wheelchair of basketball with soldiers in the Middle East and spent years in surgeries and hospital stays, where I had to drop out.
The difference two decades can make: I am back, making a go for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics, with high confidence of taking it all the way this time. I have been in regular contact with the new national coach and I am off to the National Championship match in just a few weeks!
To help everyone understand this very technical and difficult sport, at a 10 m distance (about 33 feet) the 0.177 in. pellet is going into a center ring of only 0.180 in. There's no room for error! The actual "10" center pinpoint bullseye dot is only 0.5 mm (so literally about the size of a pin hole), and there is no scope on the rifle! For a digitally scored 60 shot match, a perfect shot is 10.9 and a perfect score is 654, not 600! And all matches these days are scored electronically. The top eight go into the finals, which gets even more competitive!
This short YouTube video was recently produced by Abigail Olear through the University of Maryland and highlights a bit of my journey as a precision air rifle athlete. It is such an honor for her to have chosen my story for her documentary project!
You can search the video on YouTube.com or visit the Colonial Chapter's Facebook page for the link to the documentary. If you want to help her financially, you can search "Lisa Markland" on www.gofundme.com.
You can contact Lisa directly at topgunair10.9@gmail.com
MAY 12 - 17 2025
Matthew Peeling Elected to National PVA Secretary
Colonial Chapter President / National Director Matt Peeling was elected during PVA's National Convention this year in Austin Texas. Matt has accomplished so much in the chapter and now he brings his knowledge and skill set to the national level.
Matt first served as Chapter President since 2019 and has brought a lot to us here. From starting the H.E.A.R.T. program and creating the member and caregiver providing respite care and support activities.
As Matt takes this role starting July 1st, 2025, the chapter will be having a special election for a new chapter president. We mailed out to all chapter members about this and are taking nominations until 06/19/2025 with an election ballot coming to your mailbox soon, so keep your eyes out.
Marcus Murray Elected to National PVA Vice President
Colonial chapter member, Marcus Murray who was Fiscal Year 2025 PVA National Secretary as elected to National Vice President. He has put in a lot of work with National and now will help serve our members of the entire organization at a higher level.
Marcus was a graduate of the Colonial PVA's H.E.A.R.T. Program and became National Secretary after certificate of completion was received at National Convention last year. He is a proud father and loving grandfather who has a heart of gold.
Congratulations on your achievement and we cannot wait to see what amazing things you do in the future.
Lovelake High School
AWARDS 2025
Colonial Wins Annual Chapter Volunteer Service Award & John M. Price Award for Most Outstanding Chapter
The Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America was awarded National PVA's Annual Service Award! For 60 per capita cumulative hours given by chapter volunteers for the period of July 1st, 2023 through June 30th, 2024.
Colonial Also won the John M. Price "Most Outstanding Chapter" Award against all 33 chapters of the PVA. The staff, board members, caregivers and volunteers work hard to spread the mission and help our veterans dealing with spinal cord injury and disease.
Harry A. Schweikert Jr. Disability Awareness Award
For Army veteran and Colonial Chapter member Jerrod Harris, life is not about dwelling on what could have been -- it's about seizing the moment, pushing forward and making an impact wherever possible. Because of the impact Jerrod has made on the lives of PVA members and others with disabilities, he was the recipient of the 2025 PVA Harry A. Schweikert Jr. Disability Awareness Award.
Mr. Harris was unable to come out to Austin to accept the award in person but joined via Zoom with an impactful speech that impacted everyone in attendance. Congratulations Jerrod, we are proud of you!
Colonial Chapter Wins Bob Webb Excellence in Newsletter Award
Showing substantial improvements in several key areas over the past fiscal year, the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) Colonial Chapter newsletter, The Ramp, is the recipient of the 2025 PVA Bob Webb Excellence in a Newsletter Award.
Under the leadership of new editors, PVA Colonial Chapter Marketing Director Jason Spohn and chapter member Victor "Haze" Diaz, The Ramp has evolved into a more user-friendly and visually engaging publication. The redesigned layout allows for seamless navigation between articles, making it more accessible and appealing to readers. Spohn's and Diaz's innovative approach has significantly enhanced the delivery of actionable information and has fostered increased member involvement. By inviting members to submit their own articles, share personal stories and provide updates, The Ramp has become a more interactive and inclusive platform.
Additionally, the editors have conducted interviews with both members and community leaders, further enriching the content and strengthening the connection between the chapter and its readership.
In recent years, the newsletter has introduced two key features: Member Spotlight and Caregiver Spotlight. These segments highlight the inspiring stories of members and caregivers, raising awareness about their experiences and challenges. These features have not only helped foster a deeper sense of community, but also showcased the invaluable contributions of chapter members and their families.
The Ramp also serves as a critical source of information, keeping the community informed with the latest updates from Washington, D.C., and articles from PVA National. By ensuring both national and local events are well-represented, the newsletter delivers comprehensive coverage that is highly relevant to PVA members. Each issue regularly includes contributions from the chapter president, national director, national service officer, sports director and various other PVA Colonial Chapter members. This diversity of voices ensures The Ramp remains an essential resource for both state and national issues affecting the community.
Looking ahead, the PVA Colonial Chapter has started integrating video content into The Ramp, with plans to capture member stories and events starting in fiscal year 2025. This addition aims to further personalize the newsletter and make it even more inclusive and engaging for the PVA Colonial Chapter family.
The Ramp is distributed quarterly to members, other chapters, the PVA Executive Committee, community partners, volunteers and donors. Board members also take copies to Department of Veteran Affairs hospitals, ensuring the veterans are kept informed and potential members learn more about PVA's mission and the services it offers. To further enhance engagement, the newsletter includes a link to the chapter website in every issue, encouraging increased web traffic and providing easy access to additional resources.
Cruising With Disabilities
By Paul Stewart Colonial Chapter Member
Have you thought of going on a cruise, but just never done it? Have you gone on cruises and just regretted your experience? Is it because of the barriers the cruise lines or you placed in front of yourself? I am asking you all to have an open mind while reading this article. We would love to hear your stories if you have taken a cruise. We would like to know what barriers you faced, concerned about cruising, and positive experiences you had. If you are a frequent cruiser, have there been changes in the first cruise to your last cruise.
I have been on 3 cruises in the past four years. For the most part my very first cruise was my best cruise. My last cruise was my least favorite. My first cruise was just after Covid, and cruise lines were opening back up.
The cruise ship would normally have over 3000 passengers. We probably had under 1100 passengers. This made it easier to move around the ship. We didn’t have to wait around for a table to eat at. I didn’t have to fight with luggage while going through the hallways on the first and last night on the ship. Whereas my last cruise had close to 4ooo passengers on the ship. We waited for tables to eat at. Going through an obstacle course around luggage on the first and last night on the ship.
All cruises had excursions, but most of them weren’t accessible. There were activities on the ships, but some weren’t accessible or physically active. Most of the fitness equipment, weren’t set up to be universal (able and disabled users). There were other activities such as casino, trivia, eating, shows, and social get togethers. This leads to what we should do prior to taking a cruise. Do our homework on cruises. Find out: what is important to you, what you can tolerate, and what is a no for a cruise. Sometimes we will need to take a combination and do our best to enjoy ourselves.
For the cruises I had, all were in accessible rooms. The staterooms had wide enough doorways to maneuver into the room. The stateroom bathroom doorways were wide enough. Some of the doors were automatic. The accessible public restrooms were accessible. In the main dining buffet area, the staff were great. They were always wanting to help, even after you may say no thanks. The beds had enough room underneath so a Hoyer lift could slide under it. When boarding and disembarking from the ship at the main dock (terminal) was accessible. The ramps weren’t that steep. Whereas the ports (tenders) we stopped were steep. The staff would assist to enter and exit ships at these locations.
Cruising With Disabilities
By Paul Stewart Colonial Chapter Member
Continued...
I can’t say much about any accessible excursions, because I didn’t do them. I just know they have some available. Some ports don’t offer them because the tenders aren’t accessible for wheelchairs. If you can take a few steps, then you might be able to access either the excursions or tenders. The excursions do offer some type of ability scale ex (light, moderate, hard, & wheelchair accessible). At the accessible tender I relied on some of the tour guides or taxis. Before doing this, pay close attention to the area and do research into crime activities in the area. Sometimes cruise companies provide information about the area you are traveling to.
Best practices prior to taking a cruise:
- Plan in advance for taking a cruise. The least amount time makes it harder to get what you want and harder to get accessible rooms.
- Research and review cruise lines and travel agencies. Everything may sound so good but, sometimes it isn’t all that you imagined.
- Set a budget. The budget should be the upfront cost and possible unforeseeable charges (excursions, tips, drinks, internet, gifts, etc.).
- If flying to destination where the cruise ship is leaving, check out the prices of flights before going with their flights. You might find some that are cheaper or work better with you.
- Review the ports/tenders the ship is stopping at. How are the location for using tour guides outside of the excursions.
- Parking areas, do they offer discounted or free parking (what are the requirements).
- Activities offered on the ship. (this information changes based on the crew and time of year).
Are you aware of $100.00 membership reimbursement for your recreation from PVA Colonial Chapter? If not, here it is. Each fiscal year, you have an opportunity to get $100.00 from the chapter for membership. Share an article about what you like to do, with the receipt, and if possible, photo(s) of you doing the activity. The information may be used in newsletters, social media, or other sources within the chapter.
PVA National President Highlights Urgent Veteran Healthcare Needs & Unveils 2025
Lovelake High School 01
Policy Priorities
WASHINGTON, March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) National President Robert Thomas joined leaders from several Veterans Service Organizations today in testimony before the House and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committees. Speaking candidly about the real-life challenges faced by veterans living with spinal cord injuries and diseases, Thomas called on Congress to restore and properly fund the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) specialized care services.
Thomas emphasized the critical role VA health care and research play in sustaining the lives of PVA members, stating, “For many veterans with spinal cord injuries and diseases, such as MS and ALS, the VA is the cornerstone of our care. The VA’s Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders (SCI/D) system provides lifelong, coordinated services that are not easily replicated in the community. Without proper funding and staffing, veterans lose access to this specialized care—and, with it, their right to choose where they receive treatment.”
During his testimony, Thomas unveiled PVA’s 2025 Policy Priorities, which will guide the organization’s advocacy throughout the year. These priorities center on key areas of concern, including:
Protecting VA’s Specialized Health Care Services
Increasing Access to Long-Term Services and Supports for Veterans with SCI/D
Improving Veterans’ Financial Security
Enhancing Access to Health Care Services for Veterans with SCI/D
Defending the Freedoms of Veterans with Disabilities
He urged lawmakers to address critical issues such as persistent staffing shortages, inadequate infrastructure, and the lack of long-term care options for aging veterans with SCI/D.
Thomas brought these issues to life with compelling real-world examples from PVA members and their caregivers. He highlighted the story of U.S. Army Veteran and PVA member Rick Evans of Georgia, who endured eight years of substandard care in the private sector before the VA not only improved but transformed his life. He also cited U.S. Army Veteran and PVA National Vice President Anne Robinson and her husband Harry of Texas, who continue to face care disruptions due to direct care workforce shortages.
“Access to quality care and comprehensive support services is not a privilege—it’s a promise,” Thomas said. “It’s a debt this country owes its disabled veterans. Congress must act to uphold that promise by investing in resources and enacting policies that empower veterans to live independently, with dignity and purpose.”
Thomas concluded by reaffirming PVA’s commitment to serving the whole veteran—physically, mentally, financially, and socially—and standing alongside their families and caregivers.
“PVA remains a steadfast resource, working to ensure that veterans with catastrophic injuries and illnesses receive timely access to the specialized, high-quality care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve,” said Thomas.
To view the full testimony, or learn more about PVA’s 2025 Policy Priorities, visit PVA.org/PolicyPriorities. There, supporters can also send messages to Congress, sign petitions, and join PVAction Force for legislative updates. Read President Thomas’s recent POLITICO article, “Choose VA: The Hidden and Inevitable Cost of Outsourcing Veteran Health Care,”
VA makes it easier for Veterans to use Community Care
Access to non-VA care no longer requires secondary approval
The Department of Veterans Affairs today announced changes that will make it easier for VA-enrolled Veterans to access health care from non-VA providers at the department’s expense.
Since 2019, the MISSION Act has enabled VA-enrolled Veterans to access health care from non-VA providers at the department’s expense when it is in their best medical interest. These decisions have been made jointly by Veterans and their referring clinicians but were not considered final until they were reviewed by a second VA doctor.
Effective immediately, VA will implement language in the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act that removes this extra review step. The change will give eligible Veterans faster access to community care.
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: July 9th, 2025; August 13th, 2025, September 10th, 2025, October 8th, 2025.
The Surprising Benefits of Video Games for Veterans
For many veterans, transitioning to civilian life or coping with the lingering effects of service can be challenging. While video games are often seen as mere entertainment, they offer a range of benefits that can support veterans’ mental, emotional, and social well-being. From stress relief to building camaraderie, gaming can be a powerful tool for those who’ve served.
One key benefit is stress reduction and mental health support. Games like puzzle-based titles or immersive role-playing adventures can provide an escape, helping veterans manage anxiety, PTSD, or depression. Studies, like those from the National Institutes of Health, show gaming can lower cortisol levels and improve mood by engaging the brain in focused, rewarding tasks. Fast-paced games, such as shooters, can also channel energy and improve focus, offering a safe outlet for adrenaline. For veterans dealing with trauma, games with narrative depth can foster emotional processing and resilience.
Socially, video games create opportunities for connection. Multiplayer games like Call of Duty or cooperative titles like Destiny 2 allow veterans to team up, fostering camaraderie reminiscent of military teamwork. Online gaming communities can combat isolation, offering a space to connect with others who share similar experiences. Organizations like Stack Up and Operation Supply Drop use gaming to bring veterans together, hosting events and providing resources to build supportive networks.
Cognitively, strategy and simulation games sharpen problem-solving skills and maintain mental agility. Titles like Civilization or flight simulators engage critical thinking and decision-making, which can be therapeutic and empowering. For wounded veterans, adaptive controllers and accessible games make participation possible, promoting inclusion and independence.
Veterans can explore these benefits through local VA gaming programs, online communities, or nonprofit initiatives. Whether it’s unwinding, reconnecting, or staying sharp, video games offer more than fun—they’re a pathway to healing and community for those who’ve served.
Newsletter Article Submission
Do you have an idea for an article in an upcoming edition of The Ramp for the Colonial Chapter? Do you know of anything to make aware to our members, volunteers, donors and more that you would like to share? Reach out today for the next edition!
Please send your submissions to Jspohn@colonialpva.org or call the office at 302-861-6671
Transform Lives - Help Build Brighter Futures With Your Donation
Support Our Veterans with a One-Time or Monthly Gift and Receive a Tumbler as a Thank You
Your one-time or monthly contribution will not only make a difference in the lives of seriously injured veterans but also earn you a special tumbler as a token of our appreciation. This tumbler serves as a reminder of the vital impact you're having in empowering veterans and helping them reclaim their independence.
Since 1968, Colonial PVA Has Been Making a Difference
At Colonial PVA, we provide personalized, free programs that support veterans in their journey to live fully and independently. We help them regain what they fought for— freedom and self-sufficiency—in a world that offers few solutions to the immense challenges they face.
Founded in 1968, Colonial PVA is a proud member of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization chartered by Congress in 1947. Our mission is to promote the health, well-being, and independence of our members and the disabled community through education, medical research, therapy (physical, psychological, and recreational), and advocacy for barrier-free access.
Together, we can make a real difference. Thank you for being part of our mission to improve lives and restore hope.
Advocating For Your Rights & Educating Others About ADA
By: Paul Stewart - Colonial Chapter Member
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has been protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities since it was signed into law in 1990. This landmark legislation didn’t just appear—it was fought for by people with disabilities who demanded equal treatment and access. They petitioned, protested, and stood their ground, often at great personal cost. Some were even arrested to push this movement forward.
Thankfully, you don’t have to go to those extremes to continue their legacy. But you can make a powerful impact—by educating others and speaking up when you see violations.
Why Education Matters
Education shouldn’t just happen when a problem arises. It should happen all the time—with family, friends, community members, and even government officials. The ADA was written by lawmakers, but that doesn’t mean everyone in office—or everyone in our neighborhoods—truly understands what it means or why it matters. Start small:
• Talk to your family and friends about the basics of the ADA.
• Share how it affects your life and why it’s important.
• Then expand your efforts into your community—schools, businesses, churches, and local events are all great places to raise awareness.
What to Do When You See a Violation
If you notice a business, facility, or public space that doesn’ speak up—but do it respectfully and constructively. Anger can shut down conversations, but a calm and informed approach can open doors to real change. If the issue continues:
• Reach out to management or the business owner.
• Use social media to raise awareness—many companies are quick to respond to public posts on platforms like Facebook or X (formerly Twitter).
• Use relevant hashtags to increase visibility.
• For ongoing problems, consider contacting the media, the Department of Justice, or your local PVA chapter to explore additional options.
Keep Advocating—The Work Isn’t Finished
The ADA is vital not only for today but for future generations. That’s why we must continue advocating at every level, including with government leaders. Laws only matter if they are understood, respected, and enforced.
If you’re passionate about advocacy, reach out to your local PVA chapter and ask how you can get involved. And if you know someone else who might be interested—invite them to join you. Advocacy is stronger when we do it together. Let’s keep the spirit of the ADA alive—not just by defending it, but by educating, advocating, and empowering those around us.
VETERAN DEALS
KOHL'S OFFERS ACTIVE MILITARY, VETERANS, RETIREES AND THEIR IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBERS 15% OFF QUALIFYING PURCHASES ON MONDAYS, IN STORE ONLY.
In order to receive the military discount, eligible customers must present proper identification. Proper identification includes: military identification card; a state-issued identification indicating veteran status; or Form DD 214.
DEAL ALERT
Samsung is a global leader in technology, offering a wide range of products from cutting-edge smartphones to innovative home appliances. Recognizing the dedication of military personnel, Samsung provides exclusive discounts through its Military Offers Program.
Eligible members can enjoy savings of up to 30% on select products, including smartphones, TVs, and appliances. To access these benefits, sign up with a valid .mil email address or verify your military status via ID.me.
Crocs is proud to offer 15% OFF* all full-priced styles to Military. Verify with ID.me in cart to receive your discount.
*exclusions may apply
8/05/2025 -
08/08/2025
The Colonial Chapter’s Outdoor Adventure Club will be hitting the Chesapeake Bay again this year of the accessible-boat, The Fish Redeemer. In their last meeting, they approved the group to go back to Taylor’s Cove on August 05th, 2025, through August 08th 2025 with a day (maybe 2 days depending on weather) to board the amazing Fish Redeemer for fishing. All members who went last year fell in love with the experience so now is your chance to sign up! The home at Taylor’s Cove has a limited number of accessible space and there is a small campground if you want to come down with your camper or tent.
