Paralyzed Veterans of America, Wisconsin Chapter,

The PVA has helped make sure that I am receiving the benefits and also have advocated for me when I needed them to. They have given me such a good strong support network and they really do care and want to help! They have blessed me with so much and helped get me back to the outdoors so I am able to do yard work and go on real hiking trails by getting me an action track chair and trailer! Also they added a plow on the front so that I can plow snow in the winter not just for us but so I can help my neighbors!! They have provided a lot of us veterans with air rifle, bowling, adaptive fitness, sports bootcamp where we really get to learn so much and meet new people!! They bring in coaches from all over the USA to help us learn sports and they find ways so no matter your disability level you will be able to participate!!! They treat you as a person and also one last thing they even have a woman's group that meets! We recently learned some self defense as well!!

This past May I attended the 2024 Adaptive Sports Bootcamp organized by the Paralyzed Veterans of America – Wisconsin Chapter (PVA-WI). During the event, I had the privilege of speaking with several Veterans who shared how adaptive sports have been life-changing for them. They credited these activities with saving their lives and providing a renewed sense of purpose after experiencing paralysis. Hearing their stories profoundly moved me. The work that PVA-WI is doing is truly transformative, saving the lives of countless Veterans and giving them hope and direction.

This organization was there at my time of need. The mission hasn’t changed in my 35yrs of membership. PVA-WI strives and exceeds in giving its membership the guidance and resources to have fulfilling lives.

It’s the best organization of its kind!

I learned about PVA from the National MS Society website. I had recently been diagnosed and had a mountain of bills piling up that I couldn't hope to pay. PVA helped me through the process of applying for VA disability. They advocated for me and guided me when I had no idea where to turn or how to help myself. When my PVA representative called to tell me my disability had gotten approved, I sobbed hysterically to that poor man and he stayed on the phone with me until I got myself together. PVA continues to advocate for me and others with spinal cord injury and disease. Just this year, I began to take part in Adaptive Sports through the PVA. They have since provided me with equipment to practice at home and arranged for me to work out with a personal trainer, who specializes in adaptive fitness, remotely. PVA offers many opportunities for their members to connect with each other whether in person or virtually. I am not only very fortunate to be a member of this organization, but extremely proud.

Volunteering with the Paralyzed Veterans of America - Wisconsin Chapter's adaptive sports bootcamp has been truly rewarding. During the two-day program, I've had the privilege of working alongside veterans as they explore adaptive sports and rebuild confidence. The staff makes every volunteer feel valued and appreciated, and watching veterans support and encourage each other is incredibly inspiring.
If you're considering volunteering with PVA Wisconsin, do it! You'll be warmly welcomed and make a real difference in veterans' lives. Their commitment to helping disabled veterans thrive through adaptive sports is amazing to be part of.

PVA-WISCONSIN, has literally saved my life. Many years ago, I was introduced to the PVA and what they did for Veterans with spinal cord injuries to get involved with adaptive sports.
I had tried several times to commit suicide in the past and was in a very dark place in my life. I had forgotten about my will to live. Then, my Physical Therapist at the Tomah VAMC introduced me to adaptive sports and the National Veterans Wheelchair Games which the PVA co-sponsors with the VA. So, I decided that I would attend just to shut my Therapist up.
I drove to my first Wheelchair Games with my Son, which was almost 10 years old at the time. I was thinking that if I didn't like it, I could just leave when I wanted. We'll, when we arrived, it took me almost 2 hours of me sitting in my truck, working through all my emotions before I went in.
Once I went in, my life changed instantly. Just the atmosphere of the venue was inviting and calming, even though there was several hundred Veterans in wheelchairs and Volunteers going and coming in all directions. It was a controlled chaos kind of. However, everyone was welcoming and friendly and everyone was being so helpful but not in a "I'm helping you because you're disabled," but because they truly cared about me and my Son. Then, once the competitions started, it was even better than I had ever imagined. Even though I had never met anyone there, or ever competed in several of the sports, it didn't matter. I was welcomed with open arms and heart's.
I was then introduced to my fellow Wisconsin PVA Veterans and Volunteers. The welcoming I was given was as if I had known them for years. I was then informed of all the things that the Wisconsin PVA Chapter was going to do for me, such as, help with the expense of attending Adaptive Sports competitions, keeping me informed of all types of adaptive sports programs throughout the United States, and help with the filing disability claims with the VA just to name a few.
Once the competitions were over and my Son and I was driving back to Wisconsin, my Son told me that he was really happy that I had decided to go to the competition. I asked him "why?" Then, with his answer, is what made me put it all in perspective. He told me, "he was happy that I had attend the competitions and hoped I would continue to be involved with the PVA because he had gotten his Dad back!" With those short few words, it changed my life and gave it meaning again. It gave me a purpose and something to strive for.
So, I want to say "Thank You" to ALL of those who help make the Wisconsin PVA what it is and what it has done to not only change my life but, to have literally SAVED my life!

I had a veteran who thought his sports life was over after being in a chair. He thought the chair would now forever prevent him from the things he use to love and do. The things that made him feel whole. He attended only one event that was held by the WI Chapter PVA and it forever changed his view, his life. He said, "I am not my chair". He attended the NVWC Games this past July where he medaled in 3 sports out of the 4 he participated in with one being GOLD. Without the PVA he would have never had the chance to participate in these sports. "I am an athlete", he told me. "I am not my chair." "I am looking forward to seeing what I can do next year, thanks the the PVA."

The staff and WI PVA are outstanding. Ready to help with a willing heart! Thank you PVA for all you do for our Veterans! You kindness and dedication does not go unnoticed !!!

This organization does a tremendous amount of charity work for our Spinal Cord Injury Veterans at the Milwaukee, WI VAMC. I LOVE VOLUNTEERING FOR THIS WISCONSIN CHAPTER!! I really feel appreciated by the members.

Great people to work with. Scott and Amera are amazing. Keep up the good work!!

Donating to the Paralyzed Veterans of America - WI Chapter is a commendable act that truly makes a difference in the lives of paralyzed veterans and their families. What sets this organization apart is its unwavering commitment to utilizing every dollar donated efficiently. With an impressive 91 cents of every dollar going directly into programming, it's clear that your contribution is being put to excellent use.

The primary focus of this chapter is the well-being of paralyzed veterans and their families, and it shows in the holistic programming they build and execute. Their dedication to improving the quality of life for these veterans is inspiring. By addressing both the mental and physical aspects of their well-being, the organization ensures a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation and support.

One of the standout aspects of this charity is its deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by paralyzed veterans and their families. By tailoring their programs to address these specific needs, they offer targeted and effective support that truly makes a difference.

By donating to the Paralyzed Veterans of America - WI Chapter, you are contributing to an organization that is not only efficient in its use of funds but also deeply committed to improving the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our country. Your support is helping to create a brighter future for paralyzed veterans and their families, making it an investment in the well-being and quality of life of those who truly deserve it.

I have been an I have been an associate member for over 23 years. I am 26 years and SCI injury. But not a veteran. In all my years of volunteering and participating in events all the veterans have accepted me as one of their own. Great organization. Great leadership. They have allowed me to travel and experience things which I never would have been able to do without them.

Thank you WPVA
John Pilotte

I've volunteered with this organization for a while now, behind the scenes, doing things people don't see and assisting with events. This truly is a great organization with the best intentions for paralyzed veterans. They do an amazing job of connecting veterans to resources for assistance. In short, this is an amazingly run organization with amazing results for those in need.

PVA-Wisconsin has provided a number of programs that reach out to its members to improve their lives. For instance, earlier this year PVA held a full day of one-on-one meetings, where any member could come in and meet with a National Service Officer to discuss their federal and state government benefits opportunities and status. On this same day, everyone was also afforded the opportunity to meet with an estate planning attorney to get advice about necessary documents such as wills, powers of attorney, medical directives, etc. The incredible thing about these meetings is that they were provided free of charge to anyone wishing to come and take advantage of this opportunity.

It’s an honor to serve on the Board of Directors and support this great organization! I’m proud of our work and accomplishments.

Great people doing great things for our veterans, their families and their caregivers! Great programming and services! Keep up the good work!

The wisconsin PVA has become the proverbial "gold standard" in the area of veteran service organizations. Not only do they advocate for veteran benefits, but they also contribute to maintaining veterans health through engaging activities and have a genuine interest in unity through sport and recreation.

The Wisconsin PVA has assisted me personally by allowing me to believe in myself and accomplish not only sport related activities, but also assisted me in fundamentally understanding that the only bounds that exist in society are the ones my mind creates.

The funding that is generated through the Wisconsin PVA goes to assist in tearing down these mental roadblocks that veterans set up themselves. Wisconsin PVA genuinely believe in their veterans and assist in opening doors for each veteran to achieve the goals veterans set for themselves, whether that is financially, physically, and/or emotionally.

If there is any partner that is mentioning then it is for sure the PVA-WI chapter. The organization has been the pillar of support for not only the paralyzed veterans but also for the community. What they do and support effects so many individuals that are effected by various physical disabilities.

PVA-WI has such a good cause and mission behind it serving their members, our Veterans. My donations are just a small thank you to PVA for the hard work they put in to accomplish their worthy mission.

I really enjoyed volunteering for PVA-WI at some of their adaptive sports events. It was both heartwarming and rewarding to see the impact it had on the members and how excited and happy they were participating in the events.

PVA-WI is an amazing organization with a small but mighty staff that works to do whatever it can to support our Veterans! I have seen members find their purpose by participating in adaptive sports.

Great people doing great things! Proud to serve this organization!

PVA-WI works to enhance the quality of life for its paralyzed veteran members. This small staff works with members to empower them to find sports and recreational activities they are passionate about learning. Involvement in adaptive sports and recreational activities has saved lives and helped members build camaraderie and lasting friendships.

Our PVA Chapter has been a strong supporter of getting Veterans with spinal cord injury out of their homes and involved in a wide assortment of activities including trapshooting, sport fishing, hunting, canoeing and kayaking, bowling, table tennis, offering support for going out to dinner, visiting local attractions, attending sporting events, and supporting participation in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games with both financial support and encouragement. Much of the support is facilitated through all local VA where we have a strong working relationship.

PVA-WI has helped enable many veterans with some of the most challenging circumstances in post-military life. They advocate for positive change for the veterans they serve which also helps others within their community to include but not limited to making sure places truly are ADA compliant and those who are permanently bound to a wheelchair can partake in things that were unthought of. They also support veterans on the individual level with activities that they enjoy to improve their quality of live, they truly help keep their members engaged in positive uplifting events throughout the year.

As the executive director of PVA-WI, I'm always impressed by the board and staff members' continuous passion for serving our members and the creative ways they seek to improve the quality of life for our members. It is an honor to be part of an organization with such a high commitment to quality.

Great Veteran Service Organization providing free services to it's member, their families, and caregivers. Excellent resource for Spinal Cord Injuries/Dysfunction.

PVA -is a wonderful organization. I have seen nothing but smiles on the veterans faces at the events that I have attended. There is no way we can repay our Veterans for what they have sacrificed for us. The Paralyzed Veterans of America provides many opportunities to the Veterans, of which they are well deserving and deserving of more. Thank you PVA for how you support our Paralyzed Veterans!!!!

Paralyzed Veterans of America - WI (PVA-WI) Chapter is an incredible nonprofit working to enhance the lives of our American veterans with spinal cord injury or dysfunction through advocacy programs, providing peer mentorship, sports and recreation, support for caregivers, and camaraderie for its members. PVA-WI goes the extra mile for its members to ensure that they have the best quality of life possible.

W-PVA has been there for me when I needed help me with covering some of the costs of my Caregiver and myself to get to Wheelchair Games in whatever state they maybe in! They sponsor a couple of AirRifles tournaments every year, and the banquet that they put on at the end of the fiscal year! They give us the opportunity enjoy time with our spouse twice a year and they will reimburse us up to $50.00 each time!

Exceptional nonprofit with a small staff doing great things for Wisconsin Veterans. Only 4-star Charity Navigator rated 501c3 veteran service organization in the whole state of Wisconsin!

I started volunteering with the PVA of Wisconsin in spring of 2002, shortly after 9/11. I was too old to join the military, so thought that helping in this way would be something positive to do. I find that the guys that were on the board, mostly all paralyzed vets, were not complainers. Rather, they all worked toward a goal of making the world a better place for other vets in similar situations. My personal experience has been doing things such as helping with the monthly pizza nights at the spinal cord unit that was sponsored by the PVA-WI up until a few years ago. Helping if they need an extra set of hands at a Brewers tailgate party, again, up until a few years ago. A very popular event. I go to Brewer games with the Vets on Sunday afternoons for some home games every season, and just fill in when I am able to help out. Finally, I think in my opinion, that the PVA provides different opportunities for the vets to feel more part of another community….people with similar huge challenges. Having never been in their position, I can only imagine that this is a positive thing. -Bob Wolfgram Sr.

The PVA Wisconsin have been an absolute treat to work with. I have the honor of working with and teaching Veterans golf lessons. Scott and the PVA have helped in countless ways to make the program the best it can be. The biggest might be the support for a Veteran Golf League that keeps veterans engaged in golf and with each other. Without the PVA's support this would not be possible. Thank you Scott and the PVA of Wisconsin!

Paralyzed Veterans Of America Wisconsin Chapter is a stellar. They truly put Veterans first. I observed firsthand the care of my brothers and sisters in arms by this organization. They empower individuals to reclaim their lives after injury or disease struck and offer Veterans the ability to proactive in advocacy and legislation, in addition to being active in sports and recreation especially important in rehabilitation of the mind, body and soul. Bravo PVoA WC!

The PVA of America Wisconsin Chapter goes well over and beyond expectancy for our Spinal Cord Injury Veterans at the Milwaukee, WI VA Hospital. If a Veteran needs a Lunch or an Emergency Go Bag they have it there for them. The Veterans that want to attend the Wheelchair Olympics or Winter Sports Clinic the PVA help them out any way they can. They also take care of the Care Givers of our Veterans. They show their appreciation in many ways. We have a yearly Appreciation luncheon for all Staff and Veterans, if I need assistance with activities for staff morale they are always there to help and they are very helpful with assisting with Care Givers continuing education. I truly believe that the WI Chapter PVA deserve this award and many more for all they do for the Veteran Community.

A sound advocate. An advocate for a population who inspire many. Caring for a spinal cord injury (SCI) person is a blessing. Time after time, the WI PVA is ready and available front-and-center, to do what it takes to make an SCI patients day a little brighter. Their focus and vision should not go unnoticed. They wholeheartedly are the foundation that allows movement forward.

The WI PVA goes above and beyond for our Veterans. I could give numerous examples, but the overall theme is that they will do whatever is possible to get the job done!

A great organization with people who truly care about the community!

WPVA has many programs for paralyzed veterans. They work hard to make sure that all aspects of life are addressed to help the vets get out and involved in their communities.

I have many years experience working with nonprofit organizations and veteran related programs across the country. I have recently learned about PVA Wisconsin and am becoming more familiar with all they do for our Vets. Their mission to advocate, educate, support and provide events/sports to the men and women who served....truly a “feel good” organization to become involved with in any way. Their level of caring and integrity could be a model for many other organizations. I look forward to partnering with them where I can, and making a difference with the members who truly deserve this. Thank you PVA. Diane Miller RN