Veterans employment program gets a boost from annual charity golf tournament
Post Date: September 26, 2019
WASHINGTON, DC — Disabled veterans, along with military, business, and government leaders took to the fairways on Monday, Sept. 23 at The Golf Club at Lansdowne to raise funds for Paralyzed Veterans of America’s employment program, PAVE.
The 12th annual Paralyzed Veterans Golf Open, hosted by Agility Defense & Government Services, raised $324,000 for the employment program, which provides free career support and vocational counseling assistance to all veterans, transitioning service members, spouses, and caregivers. PAVE staff have successfully assisted more than 4,400 individuals.
“Finding civilian employment for veterans, especially veterans with disabilities or other barriers to employment, can be challenging,” said David Zurfluh, an Air Force veteran and national president of Paralyzed Veterans of America. “Our 2019 PVGO was a great day for an even greater cause. Thanks to the tremendous support of Agility and all the supporters of this annual golf tournament, we’ve been able to change the lives of thousands of veterans, their spouses and caregivers by helping them find meaningful careers.”
Leveraging a high-touch approach, PVA’s PAVE (Paving Access for Veterans Employment) analysts and vocational rehabilitation counselors work with clients to help them overcome barriers to employment at all stages of their lives. The program assists with everything from resume development to instilling the confidence that is necessary in the job search.
Since its inception in 2008, the PVGO has raised more than $4 million and dedicated 100% of those funds to the employment program.
“We had a record-breaking fundraising year at this year’s Paralyzed Veterans Golf Open thanks to all of our generous supporters and partners who came out for this important cause,” said Rich Brooks, chairman of the PVGO, president of Agility DGS Inc, and a retired Army colonel. “Every year, this event builds more momentum and excitement, and that has translated into growing impact on the lives of veterans and their families. We are very proud to support Paralyzed Veterans of America’s employment program.”
About Paralyzed Veterans of America
Paralyzed Veterans of America is the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated solely to the benefit and representation of veterans with spinal cord injury or disease. For more than 70 years, the organization has ensured that veterans receive the benefits earned through 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 life-long partner and advocate for veterans and all people with disabilities, Paralyzed Veterans of America 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.
