[May 06, 2015]

Paralyzed Veterans of America Holding 69th Annual Convention in San Diego

Paralyzed Veterans of America (Paralyzed Veterans) kicked off its Annual Convention yesterday in San Diego, CA (News - Alert), with leaders from the organization's 34 chapters from across the country in attendance. Throughout the week, Paralyzed Veterans' leaders will map out strategies to better service its members, as well all veterans and their families. The nonprofit organization, which was founded in 1946, is the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization that represents veterans with spinal cord injury or disease.

"While the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan have officially ended, our service to veterans continues," said Al Kovach Jr., national president of Paralyzed Veterans, who is chairing this week's convention. "Paralyzed Veterans has been around for almost 70 years now, and we will continue to be here to serve every generation of veterans and their families for as long as needed."

In 2014 alone, Paralyzed Veterans of America provided services to more than 60,000 veterans and their families nationwide, and secured more than $290 million in new benefit awards and ancillary benefits for veteran clients. The organization also opened its seventh Operation PAVE (Paving Access for Veterans Employment) office in Chicago to provide vocational services to veterans, their families and caregivers in the region.

Special guest Robert McDonald, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary, gave the morning's keynote address, in which he touched on many critical current topics, including the backlog, ending veterans' homelessness, the VA Choice Program and improving the culture at VA to be able to provide a better experience for veterans.

Regarding improving the way the VA serves veterans, Secretary McDonald stated: "We want you to think of VA as VA being customized just for you. It's your VA-you're the boss." He also stated: "We have the best, most inspiring mission, and serve the greatest clients in the world."

On Thursday, Paralyzed Veterans will host a Caregivers Forum for military and veterans' spouses, and other caregivers, to discuss the challenges caregivers face, and the support and resources available to them. Representatives from the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and nonprofit PsychArmor will also join the discussion.

Paralyzed Veterans' 69th Annual Convention will conclude on Friday with the election of officers for the 2015-2016 term.

About Paralyzed Veterans of America:

Paralyzed Veterans of America is the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated solely for the benefit and representation of veterans with spinal cord injury or disease. For nearly 70 years, we have ensured that veterans have received the benefits earned through their service to our nation; monitored their care in VA spinal cord injury units; and funded research and education in the search for a cure and improved care for individuals with paralysis.

As a partner for life, Paralyzed Veterans also develops training and career services, works to ensure accessibility in public buildings and spaces, provides health and rehabilitation opportunities through sports and recreation and advocates for veterans and all people with disabilities. With more than 70 offices and 34 chapters, Paralyzed Veterans serves veterans, their families and their caregivers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. (www.pva.org)

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