JUNE 2024 |  ISSUE #26 |  PVA SUPPORTER EDITION

After an episode in 2017 left Army Veteran Andrea with chiari malformation with an inoperable syrinx on her spine, she was medically retired at age 24. 
 
Andrea discovered PVA's Veteran Career Program while searching for support groups after her retirement. Soon after, Andrea joined PVA’s Disabled Veterans Self-Employment Program where she was able to find a sense of community, and receive the support she needed to start her own business. 

PVA POLICY PRIORITIES

PVA Kicks Off the 2024 Advocacy Legislation Seminar

We’re excited to host our Advocacy Legislation Seminar June 11-13. More than 125 Chapter leaders, staff, and volunteers will convene in Washington, D.C., and receive hands-on training before advancing PVA’s policy priorities during congressional meetings. Additionally, National President Robert Thomas and Chief Executive Officer Carl Blake will testify before the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs on Thurs., June 13 at 9:30 a.m. ET

PVA WORKS TO IMPROVE VA HEALTHCARE SPENDING 

Recommendations for the VA's 2025 Fiscal Year Budget

In early May, PVA testified before the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee on behalf of the Independent Budget’s recommendations to talk about the VA's budget for fiscal year 2025. PVA expressed concerns about the increase in spending on care outside of VA hospitals, and how it affects the care provided by the VA.

PVA's influence on THE new faa law 

Last month the President signed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 into law. The new law includes several PVA-supported items that address the experience of air travel passengers with disabilities.

Through our advocacy efforts, PVA has made a tangible impact on enhancing accessibility and ensuring equal treatment for all air travelers.

PVA COMMENDED by VA SECRETARY  Mcdonough

While attending PVA's Annual Convention in Minneapolis in May, VA Secretary Denis McDonough emphasized the importance of collaboration with organizations such as PVA in achieving comprehensive, life-saving support for paralyzed Veterans.

PVA AWARENESS WEEK ESTABLISHED IN MINNESOTA

Also at PVA's Annual Convention, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz named March 13-19 as "Paralyzed Veterans of America Awareness Week" to honor PVA's commitment to improving the lives of Veterans with SCI/D.

PVA architects: INDUSTRY trailblazers 

Did you know? That PVA is the only Veterans Service Organization (VSO) with a team of licensed architects?

Our architects work hard to stay current with industry trends and education. They participate in classes on accessible design and attend seminars, such as the American Institute of Architects (AIA) annual Conference on Architecture & Design, which PVA's architects will be attending in Washington, DC.

PVA endorses potential VA healthcare bill (Stripes.com)

The proposed measures would improve job training and prioritize intensive mental health treatment for Veterans in crisis.