PVA Hosts Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat in Orlando
Post Date: October 6, 2023
Orlando, Florida (October 6, 2023) — Paralyzed Veterans of America, the nation’s premier nonprofit of choice for disabled veterans, their families, and caregivers, wrapped up its 2023 Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat in Orlando, Florida today. This three-day empowerment retreat engages and supports female veterans with spinal cord-related injuries and diseases.
Female veterans are the nation’s fastest-growing veteran community, and veteran service organizations, the V.A. and other supporting entities must also meet their specific needs. PVA hosted nearly 50 female veterans with spinal cord-related injuries and diseases, like M.S., from across the U.S. to get acquainted, attend advocacy and leadership sessions, and partake in group exercises customized specifically for women veterans and their unique challenges. See photos here.
“Women Veterans are a unique and important community, and the Empowerment Retreat equips them with the tools they need to succeed,” said Tammy Jones, PVA National Vice President. “Each of these women come together during this Retreat from different life experiences and bond over navigating situations others in the Veteran community do not face. Every year, we strive to make this Retreat impactful and a time to create lasting relationships that will support them in the years to come.”
Jones, who suffered a broken neck following a car accident one year after joining the U.S. Air Force, has dedicated her life to giving back to veterans and was actively involved in planning the Retreat alongside
Anne Robinson, the newly elected Vice President/National Director of the PVA Texas Chapter. Robinson was medically retired from the U.S. Army after becoming paralyzed in a military vehicle accident and is now a PVA advocate. Last year, the mother of two successfully lobbied for a change in accessible parking in Texas.
The 2023 Retreat focused on honing leadership skills, resiliency and advocacy. Additionally, attendees enjoyed morning yoga and meditation classes, emphasizing the importance of physical and emotional well-being. This year’s all-expense-paid community-building experience took place from September 30 through October 3 and is sponsored by Amazon, First Nation Group, Siebert Williams Shank Foundation, and TriWest Healthcare Alliance.
To learn more about the Retreat and the unique issues women veterans face, as well as how PVA is helping ensure their voices are heard, visit PVA.org/get-involved/women-veterans-empowerment-retreat/.
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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.
