Paralyzed Veterans of America, a proud partner of Military Family and Veterans Service Organizations of America, recently published this story highlighting the work they do with paralyzed women veterans.
Orlando, Florida (October 6, 2023) — Paralyzed Veterans of America 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.
“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 PVA and the other great MFVSOA partners helping veterans, visit Our Partners.
Share this article