Companies urged to support largest annual
adaptive sports and rehabilitation event
for U.S. military veterans with disabilities
WASHINGTON, May 13, 2024
/PRNewswire/ -- Paralyzed Veterans of America and the
Department of Veterans Affairs today announced the
44th Annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games – the
largest adaptive sports and rehabilitation event designed
exclusively for U.S. military veterans with disabilities
– will take place in Minneapolis,
Minnesota July 17-22, 2025.
The six-day, high-energy event will be comprised of more than 600
athletes, 20+ events, and over 3,000 volunteers from across the
world.
"We are thrilled to be chosen as the host city for the 44th
Annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games," said Christy Loy of Meet Minneapolis. "We look
forward to welcoming all the athletes, supporters, and partners
from around the world as we come together to support our nation's
veterans with disabilities."
The National Veterans Wheelchair Games is open to all U.S.
veterans with spinal cord injuries, amputations, MS, or other
central neurological conditions who require a wheelchair. This
event demonstrates the unstoppable character of veterans and seeks
to foster wider respect and opportunities for all people with
disabilities. Every year, hundreds of American heroes from every
branch and era compete in this celebration of sport and
camaraderie.
"The Wheelchair Games is so much more than an athletic
competition," said U.S. Army Veteran and PVA National President
Robert Thomas. "The Wheelchair Games
helps veterans develop their core wheelchair skills, build
confidence, and re-learn everyday tasks. It also expands their
support systems and gives them a sense of community. In short, the
Wheelchair Games are everything - impacting virtually every aspect
of life."
The Department of Veterans Affairs launched the Wheelchair Games
in 1981 with seven events and 77 athletes. PVA joined forces with
the VA a short time later, in 1985, to help expand the event's
mission and reach. Since then, the Wheelchair Games has flourished,
evolving into the world's premier adaptive sports event for
veterans.
"While the VA Minneapolis Health Care System is certainly proud
to once again host the Wheelchair Games, it is really the
whole Twin Cities that will be
hosting these Veterans," said Minneapolis VA Health Care
System Director Pat Kelly. "In 2005,
the Wheelchair Games descended on the
Twin Cities and showed that disability is merely a concept
but does not define the athleticism and competitive spirit of our
Veterans. Twenty years later, we are proud to show this still
rings true."
In addition to the sporting events, the Wheelchair Games offer
infinite sponsorship opportunities, like an onsite expo, over 20
sporting events, and our Kid's Day program. Additional sponsorship
options include our athlete reception, opening and closing
ceremonies, and many more.
As preparations for the 44th National Veterans Wheelchair Games
kick into high gear, VA and PVA are inviting individuals,
businesses, and organizations to join them in making this event a
resounding success. Whether through sponsorship opportunities,
volunteerism, or participation, there are countless ways to get
involved and make a meaningful impact.
To learn more about the Wheelchair Games, how to get involved or
become a sponsor, visit WheelchairGames.org.
About Paralyzed Veterans of America
Paralyzed Veterans
of America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and the only congressionally
chartered veterans service organization dedicated solely for the
benefit and representation of veterans with spinal cord injury or
diseases. The organization ensures veterans receive the benefits
earned through service to our nation; monitors their care in VA
spinal cord injury units; and funds research and education in the
search for a cure and improved care for individuals with
paralysis.
As a life-long partner and advocate for veterans and all people
with disabilities, PVA also develops training and career services,
works to ensure accessibility in public buildings and spaces, and
provides health and rehabilitation opportunities through sports and
recreation. With more than 70 offices and 33 chapters, Paralyzed
Veterans of America serves veterans, their families, and their
caregivers in all 50 states, the District
of Columbia, and Puerto
Rico. Learn more at PVA.org.
About the United States Department of Veterans
Affairs
The United States Department of Veterans Affairs
(VA) is a Cabinet-level executive branch department of the federal
government charged with providing lifelong healthcare services to
eligible military veterans at the 170 VA medical centers and
outpatient clinics located throughout the country. Non-healthcare
benefits include disability compensation, vocational
rehabilitation, education assistance, home loans, and life
insurance. The VA also provides burial and memorial benefits to
eligible veterans and family members at 135 national
cemeteries.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) runs programs benefiting
veterans and members of their families. It offers education
opportunities and rehabilitation services and provides compensation
payments for disabilities or death related to military service,
home loan guaranties, pensions, burials, and health care that
includes the services of nursing homes, clinics, and medical
centers.
Contact: Cristina
Varela
CristinaV@PVA.org
(202) 416-7787 office
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SOURCE Paralyzed Veterans of America