Programs

COLONIAL CHAPTER PVA PROGRAMS

Through our chapter programs, community engagement, and advocacy efforts, the Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America works to improve the lives of paralyzed and disabled veterans across Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Philadelphia and DE, and the surrounding region. Our programs provide direct services, peer support, education, employment training, and legislative advocacy—ensuring members have the tools, resources, and support needed to live independently, with dignity and respect.

ADVOCACY

Established 1968

Advocacy is central to the mission of the Colonial Chapter. Since 1968, members have worked collaboratively with community partners and policymakers to advance the rights of paralyzed veterans and people with disabilities. Advocacy efforts focus on improving access to healthcare, increasing civic engagement, and raising awareness of disability-related issues.

Volunteers assist at VA Medical Centers, Community Living Centers, VA Outpatient Clinics and the disabled community, helping ensure veterans receive timely care, appropriate services, and strong representation at all levels.

ACCESSIBILITY NEEDS PROGRAM

Established 1986

The Accessibility Needs Program supports independent living by providing essential equipment and home modifications for individuals with disabilities throughout Delaware. Services include wheelchairs, prosthetics, ramps, stairlifts, automatic door openers, and other accessibility solutions.

To date, the Colonial Chapter has invested more than $2.1 million to assist low-income individuals, removing physical barriers and improving safety, mobility, and quality of life.

HOSKINS EDUCATION AND REEMPLOYMENT TRAINING (H.E.A.R.T.) PROGRAM

Launched 2020

The H.E.A.R.T. Program is a 24-week paid fellowship designed to help paralyzed and disabled veterans prepare for meaningful employment. Fellows receive individualized training, career guidance, and professional development support, along with one-on-one mentorship from a trained peer mentor.

The program maintains a 100% success rate, empowering members to pursue sustainable careers and long-term economic independence.

MENTORING PROGRAM

Established 2021

The Mentoring Program pairs trained member volunteer mentors with veterans or non- veterans who are newly injured as well as those living long-term with disabilities. Through peer-to-peer support, mentors offer guidance, encouragement, and connections to resources that promote independence, health, and emotional well-being.

This program strengthens community ties and helps reduce isolation while supporting successful adjustment and long-term resilience.

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS) PROGRAM

Established 2021

The MS Program provides ongoing outreach and support to members living with Multiple Sclerosis. Weekly check-ins, monthly virtual meetings, and coordinated sessions with the Baltimore VA MS Clinic offer education, peer support, and access to specialized care.

Currently, 88 members actively participate in the MS Program.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM

Established 2019

The Caregiver Support Program serves family members and caregivers who provide daily care and assistance to chapter members. Services include respite care, caregiver retreats, educational resources, and peer support opportunities.

By addressing caregiver stress, isolation, and burnout, the program helps sustain healthy caregiving relationships and improves outcomes for both veterans and caregivers.

WOMEN VETERANS PROGRAM

Established 2020

The Women Veterans Program empowers women veterans with disabilities through connection, advocacy, and education. With 41 active members, the program focuses on healthcare access, VA benefits, employment opportunities, and peer support, ensuring women veterans receive equitable services and recognition.

SPORTS & RECREATION PROGRAM

The Sports & Recreation Program supports the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of paralyzed and disabled veterans through adaptive sports and recreational opportunities. Participation in adaptive recreation promotes mobility, confidence, independence, and overall quality of life while reducing isolation and strengthening community connection.

To remove financial barriers, the Colonial Chapter offers Adaptive Sports & Recreation Grants, providing up to $1,000 annually per member to support participation in adaptive sports, fitness programs, recreational activities, and related equipment. Members are encouraged to select activities that align with their interests, abilities, and personal wellness goals.

MEMBER OUTREACH PROGRAM

Established 2020

The Member Outreach Program maintains consistent communication and engagement with chapter members through bi-weekly wellness check-ins, updates, and event outreach. This program ensures members remain informed, supported, and connected to available services and chapter activities.

LEGISLATION PROGRAM

Established 1968

Through the Legislation Program, members advocate at the local, state, and national levels for policies affecting paralyzed veterans and individuals with disabilities. Members participate annually in the PVA Advocacy and Legislation Seminar in Washington, DC, engaging directly with lawmakers—22 legislators in the most recent year—to advance veterans’ rights, healthcare access, and disability policy.

COLONIAL CHAPTER PVA SERVICES

NATIONAL SERVICE OFFICERS (NSOs)

National Service Officers assist members with VA disability claims and benefits advocacy in Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Wilmington, helping veterans secure the benefits they have earned.

VETERANS ADMINISTRATION VOLUNTARY SERVICES (VAVS)

VAVS representatives provide supplies, support, and advocacy for hospitalized veterans within VA Medical Centers.

COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM

Established 1968

The Communications Program keeps members informed and engaged through multiple platforms, including The Ramp newsletter, the annual report, chapter meetings, the website, social media, email updates, phone calls, and mailed correspondence.

GRANTS & AWARDS PROGRAM

The Colonial Chapter distributes grants and awards to support VA Medical Centers, partner organizations, and individual members. Funding aligns with the mission of the PVA Research and Education Foundations and addresses critical needs.

Current Grant Programs Include:

Attendant Funding Grant: Up to $500 annually for attendant care, based on income and assets
Respite Care Grant: $500 annually for in-home respite services
Adaptive Sports & Recreation Grants: Up to $1,000 annually per member to support adaptive sports and recreational participation

Join Our Vibrant Online Programs

Colonial PVA Online Programs

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MS Program - 2nd Tuesday Each Month @ 2:00pm EST

Host Jerrod Harris with Co-Host Jennifer Small produce and deliver monthly Teams meetings that take our members on a journey plus connects them to their peers. You get to hear from your peers about living and managing their Multiple Sclerosis, and they are known to have guest speakers who give resources and support for navigating everyday life.

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Women Veterans Program - 1st Tuesday Each Month 7:00 pm

Colonial Chapter of the PVA provides an opportunity for women veterans to form bonds, share experiences, remind the community and themselves that they served too! Chair Betty Geer and Co-Chair Kathleen Fitzpatrick have virtual meetings on the first Tuesday or every month on Zoom.

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Weekly "Chill & Chat" - Every Monday at 12:00 pm

Looking to take a coffee break every week and talk with others in the Colonial Family? Looking for a place to just pop in and listen to others for inspiration? Join Jennifer Small and other members every Monday to discuss whatever is on your mind. Communication outside of your circle is good for the soul.

Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing Teams Meetings

To participate in our online clubs, simply follow these steps: First, ensure you have Microsoft Teams installed on your device. Next, click on the provided meeting link for the club you wish to join. You will be prompted to open the Teams app or join via your web browser. Once connected, you can engage with fellow members in real-time discussions and activities. For any assistance, please contact our support team.

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!