Discover The Colonial Chapter PVA

Colonial Chapter Membership

Since 1946, Paralyzed Veterans of America has been on a mission to change lives and build brighter futures for our seriously injured heroes. We’ve had a single-minded mission—to empower our brave men and women to regain what they fought for: their freedom and independence.

Paralyzed Veterans was originally founded by a band of service members who came home from World War II with spinal cord injuries. They returned to a grateful nation, but also to a world with few solutions to the major challenges they faced.

These wounded heroes made a decision not just to live, but to live with dignity as contributors to society. They created Paralyzed Veterans of America, an organization dedicated to serving veterans—and to medical research, advocacy and civil rights for all people with disabilities.

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER

The Colonial Chapter has approximately 320 members.  To qualify for membership an individual must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a citizen of the United States
  • Was regularly enlisted, inducted, or commissioned, and was accepted for or on active duty in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard of   the United States or an ally of the United States
  • Was separated from the Armed Forces under conditions other than dishonorable or is on active duty or must continue to serve after the cessation of hostilities
  • Has suffered a spinal cord injury or disease, whether or not service connected in origin

    Related diseases include:

    What is required with your membership application:

    • A copy of your DD214
    • Proof of U.S. or U.S. Territorial Citizenship (Birth Certificate, Passport, INS * Form, or Voter’s Registration Form)
    • Medical evidence of spinal cord injury or involvement (medical records or physician’s statement form)

    If you meet all of the above criteria you can fill out a Membership Application and mail it along with the required documentation to the chapter office at:

    Colonial Chapter PVA
    700 Barksdale Road, Suite 2
    Newark, DE 19711
    (302) 861-6671

    WHY BECOME A MEMBER OF COLONIAL PVA

    Join the Colonial Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) and become part of a community dedicated to empowering veterans with spinal cord injuries or diseases. Your membership strengthens our mission to advocate for quality healthcare, accessible benefits, and a vibrant, inclusive community for paralyzed veterans in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Philadelphia Area and Washington D.C.

    Why Join Colonial PVA?

    By becoming a member, you’ll help us champion the rights and well-being of paralyzed veterans while gaining access to valuable resources, support, and camaraderie. Here’s what membership offers:
    • Advocacy: Amplify your voice as we work with policymakers to secure better healthcare, benefits, and accessibility for veterans.
    • Community: Connect with fellow veterans, share experiences, and build lifelong friendships through events, support groups, and activities.
    • Resources: Gain access to exclusive PVA programs, including educational workshops, adaptive sports, and career services.
    • Local Impact: Support initiatives in [insert region] that directly improve the lives of paralyzed veterans and their families.
    • National Network: Tap into the broader PVA network for nationwide advocacy, events, and opportunities.

    Membership Types

    Veteran Membership

    • Eligibility: U.S. military veterans with spinal cord injuries or diseases (e.g., MS, ALS) who meet PVA criteria.
    • Benefits: Full voting rights, access to all PVA programs, and eligibility for leadership roles in the Colonial Chapter.
    • Cost: Free for eligible veterans.

    Associate Membership

    • Eligibility: Open to family members, caregivers, friends, or supporters of paralyzed veterans.
    • Benefits: Participate in chapter events, receive newsletters, and contribute to our mission (non-voting).
    • Cost: Free

    Corporate/Community Partner

    • Eligibility: Businesses, organizations, or individuals committed to supporting our mission.
    • Benefits: Recognition in our newsletter, website, and events, plus opportunities to sponsor programs.
    • Cost: Contact 302-861-6671 For More Information

    How to Join:

    1. Complete the Application: Download the Membership Application Form.

    2. Submit Documentation: Veteran members must provide proof of military service and medical eligibility (e.g., VA documentation of spinal cord injury/disease).
    3. Send Your Application: Email to JBedsworth@colonialpva.org or mail to: 700 Barksdale Rd, Suite 2, Newark, DE 19711.
    4. Get Involved: Once approved, you’ll receive a welcome packet and invitations to upcoming events!
      Ready to Make a Difference?
      Your membership fuels our work to ensure paralyzed veterans live with dignity, independence, and opportunity. Join today and be part of something bigger.
      Questions? Contact us at (302) 861-6671

      HELP SUPPORT OUR MISSION!

      The Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America strives to restore hope and quality of life to Veterans, their families and caregivers who face the challenges of Spinal Cord Injury and Diseases like Multiple Sclerosis and ALS. With support from you, we can continue making dreams come true for our veterans, Donate Today!

      Donate Today!