The Power of Paralyzed Veterans of America can be felt everywhere. It surrounds our members and their families, as well as the disability community at large, supporting them at every twist and turn.
The Power of PVA isn’t just influence though—it is also IMPACT. Since 1946, we have been member-led and mission driven. That lived experience is the compass that guides everything we do. It’s why PVA shows up at the bedside and on Capitol Hill, why we fight to fill VA staffing shortages and rewrite unjust policies, why we advocate for accessible homes and meaningful careers, and why we won’t stop until EVERY person living with a disability has access to equitable treatment. In short, PVA is a relentless ally, transforming challenges into change and driving REAL action.
THIS is the Power of PVA. Here are our accomplishments in Fiscal Year 2025.
MESSAGE FROM OUR NATIONAL PRESIDENT & CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
Dear Friends,
Nearly 80 years ago, Paralyzed Veterans of America was founded by a group of veterans who returned home from World War II and refused to be defined by their injuries. They met adversity head-on with courage, conviction, and grit that embodied the heart of service. It is the honor of my life to continue leading this organization with that same spirit of determination that drives everything we do today.
The Power of PVA is infinite, reaching beyond any single program or achievement. Our 33 Chapters across the country and in Puerto Rico serve as lifelines in their communities, offering hands-on assistance through some of life’s most challenging moments. Our experts exhibit unwavering commitment, fueling success and breakthroughs across fields like government, science, healthcare, and sports.
This year, we’ve seen and felt the Power of PVA in countless ways. It’s in every veteran who rediscovered confidence, purpose, and independence through our programs. It’s in the communities that came together to make accessibility a shared priority. And it’s in conversations that changed minds, shaped policies, and opened doors, proving that when veterans lead with courage, the nation follows. As a veteran with SCI/D and a PVA member, I’ve witnessed this power firsthand and can tell you it saved my life.
As we approach PVA’s 80th anniversary, I am filled with gratitude for everyone who makes our mission possible—our staff, partners, caregivers, spouses, and especially our members who redefine what is possible for every person living with a disability.
Because of you, the Power of PVA continues to grow stronger each year.
Robert Thomas
National President & Chairman of the Board, PVA
U.S. Army Veteran
MESSAGE FROM OUR CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Dear Friends,
Over the last year, Paralyzed Veterans of America has made a tremendous impact across the nation.
From helping pass the Elizabeth Dole Act, which expands healthcare and benefits for veterans and their caregivers, to ensuring accessible drop-off zones were installed on Capitol Hill, our team achieved victories that impact individuals far beyond our membership.
We teamed up with award-winning sports anchor Hannah Storm to record Women First, a public service announcement that shed light on the cruel reality of inaccessible medical facilities and equipment for women with disabilities. Keeping that momentum going, we expanded partnerships with L’Oréal USA and Lancôme, drawing even more attention to women veterans and the unique challenges they face.
We worked with U.S. Bank Stadium and the Minnesota Vikings on accessibility upgrades after presenting them with PVA’s 2025 Barrier-Free America Award— the first NFL stadium and team to receive such an honor. We also launched an Outdoor Adaptive Recreation Experience to promote mental health.
And when the VA’s SCI/D system of care faced threats, PVA stepped up to safeguard specialized healthcare and benefits, elevating their voices before lawmakers.
We rounded out the year by helping make history with the first FDA approved non-addictive pain medication in over 20 years thanks to research conducted at Yale University with PVA-funded research grants.
None of these milestones would have been possible without the dedication of our staff, partners, and supporters who fuel the Power of PVA. As we look ahead to our 80th year, I am inspired by what we have achieved and energized by what we will accomplish next—together.
Carl Blake Chief Executive Officer, PVA U.S. Army Veteran
MEET OUR EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Robert Thomas
Tammy
Lawrence Mullins, Jr.
Anne Robinson
Marcus Murray
Josue Cordova National
Tom Wheaton
THE POWER OF CARE
No other nonprofit organization matches PVA’s depth of expertise or influence in shaping the care of veterans with spinal cord injuries and diseases (SCI/D). Through its Medical Services & Health Policy team, PVA maintains exclusive access to all 25 VA SCI/D Centers—where accredited clinicians, licensed architects, and policy experts work side by side to ensure every veteran receives the highest standard of care. Complementing that fieldwork is PVA’s Research and Education department, which funds groundbreaking studies, trains healthcare professionals, and turns research into real-world solutions. Together, these powerhouses embody the Power of Care: connecting bedside, healthcare policy, and innovation to improve lives and revolutionize spinal cord injury care.
Every position filled is another veteran seen sooner, served better, and treated with the dignity they’ve earned.”
—PVA Medical Services Team Member
PVA MEDICAL SERVICES & HEALTH POLICY
The Challenge
Hiring freezes and budget pressures across the VA have placed significant strain on the SCI/D system of care. Several SCI/D centers lost essential clinical and support staff, which has resulted in bed closures, increased wait times, and disruptions to care.
The Solution
Through credible data, early action, and close collaboration with VA leaders and frontline workers, PVA has protected and improved the standard of care for veterans with SCI/D. Our partnerships with organizations like the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, The ALS Association, National MS Society, and the Elizabeth Dole Foundation enable us to scale effective solutions and share best practices nationally.
Power in Numbers
27
PVA site visits conducted at VAMC SCI/D Centers
86%
Acceptance of PVA recommendations
Because of PVA…
146
PVA recommendations submitted to the VA
750+
PVA Healthcare Summit & Expo attendees
Critical positions were filled across VA facilities nationwide after PVA advocated for their need. These included multiple physical and occupational therapy professionals, six nursing assistants, two physicians, as well as one urologist and respiratory therapist, which equates to over 25,000 hours of patient care. Every position filled means veterans move closer to receiving the world-class care they earned and deserve. Beyond staffing, PVA gave recommendations and guidance to help launch ALS and MS support groups at SCI/D centers, expanded interdisciplinary care teams with psychologists, and integrated pharmacists and nutritionists into annual exams.
PVA RESEARCH & EDUCATION
The Challenge
Often, it can take years for promising discoveries to reach bedside care and everyday clinical practices. This widens existing gaps in access to high-quality SCI/D care.
The Solution
PVA turns research into resources that directly benefit veterans living with SCI/D and their families. By integrating research and education under one roof, we not only fund bold ideas, but turn them into standard care protocols. By partnering with leading global research institutions, like Yale University, Stanford University, and the University of Pittsburgh’s Human Engineering Research Laboratories, PVA is advancing effective, timely, and lasting solutions in SCI/D care.
Power in Numbers
142
Grant applications received *Highest in PVA history
~$1.2 million
Total research grants funded
Because of PVA…
The research of Dr. Stephen Waxman of Yale University led to significant progress in pain management, having laid the foundation for the first-ever non-addictive paid medication. Journavx, the first drug in this class developed by Vertex Pharmaceuticals, was approved by the FDA in January 2025, thanks to PVA-funded grants to Yale University. It is the first new acute pain treatment in more than 20 years.
Our focus is fixed firmly on finding new treatments—and ultimately cures—for SCI/D. We regard PVA as a full partner in our research. When we established our partnership in 1988, a cure for SCI was a dream. Now, piece by piece, we are making it a reality. [Their] support, through decades of continued funding, has been invaluable.”
—Dr. Stephen Waxman, Yale University
THE POWER OF OPPORTUNITY
The gateway to purpose is opportunity. PVA helps veterans build stable lives through benefits, education, careers, and entrepreneurship. Our 74 National Service Officers (NSOs) nationwide help veterans navigate the complex VA system, providing expert, lifelong support to help secure the benefits they’ve earned. Once secured, the Veterans Career Program opens the door to what comes next by connecting veterans, their spouses, caregivers, and families with education, training, and meaningful employment. Together, these experts exemplify the Power of Opportunity: helping veterans not only live with dignity but also thrive.
You’re not just my representative, you’re my lifeline. I thought the system had forgotten me until PVA stepped in.”
—Veteran client
PVA VETERAN BENEFITS
The Challenge
Many veterans across the country are experiencing a troubling trend—VA claims are taking longer and more are being denied for avoidable or minor reasons. The reasons for these delays and denials range from ever-increasing VA caseloads and limited VA resources, to issues with poorly-trained, private-sector exam contractors. These reasons are particularly prevalent in complex SCI, ALS, and MS cases.
The Solution
PVA National Service Officers interpret detailed medical evidence and consult with leading research institutions including Johns Hopkins, Duke, Mayo Clinic, and Mass General. NSOs, who are veterans themselves, work long hours to ensure all veterans receive accurate, fair, and timely decisions on their VA claims.
Power in Numbers
Nearly 27K
Claims filed on behalf of veterans
86%
Acceptance rate by VA leadership
$6 million
Annual and retroactive benefits awarded
Because of PVA…
$286+ million
New annual and retroactive benefits awarded
$44.6+ million
Automobile and auto adaptive equipment grants awarded
$1.38+ billion
Combined recurring payments for disability compensation, survivors/widows, and non-service-connected pensions
A veteran living with Parkinson’s disease obtained an increase in benefits thanks to an NSO who helped identify and correct a VA error. These benefits included eligibility for the specially adapted housing grant, an automobile grant, automobile adaptive equipment, and numerous other federal and state benefits and grants. In addition, the veteran’s two schoolage children are now eligible for financial educational assistance.
WATCH OUR PSA: BARRIERS STILL EXIST-RJ’s EVERYDAY FIGHT
EXPERTISE THAT SETS US APART
7 of 9 PVA staff hold Certified Rehabilitation Counselor credentials— the highest certification in helping individuals with disabilities live and work independently.
PVA VETERANS CAREER PROGRAM
The Challenge
For many disabled veterans, the biggest barrier to employment isn’t ability, it’s perception. Misunderstandings surrounding accessibility and accommodations continue to push highly qualified professionals to the sidelines.
The Solution
PVA’s Veterans Career Program meets each veteran client where they are in their life and stays with them for the long haul. By educating employers, arranging accommodations, and protecting veterans’ SSDI benefits by utilizing the Ticket to Work program, PVA empowers veterans to rejoin the workforce with confidence.
Power in Numbers
220
Total PVA placements (135 employment, 80 education/training, and 5 volunteer opportunities)
6,800+
Client support interactions
Because of PVA…
$69,714
Average full-time salary of PVA clients **National average for a veteran is $51,900
70
PVA webinars with 1,000+ participants
40+
Total participants over 5 cohorts, 10 winners, $25,000 awarded for business start-ups
Terry, a PVA member with ALS who risked losing his SSDI benefits after earning above the income threshold at his part-time job, was able to keep both his job and his benefits thanks to a PVA Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, who helped secure a Work Subsidy through the Ticket to Work program. This support allowed him to work at his daughter’s school and continue earning vital income to provide for his family.
“There aren’t enough words to describe how much having PVA advocating on my behalf means to me. This program gave me back the freedom to keep doing what I love—being part of my community and my family.”
—Terry, WA
THE POWER OF ADVOCACY
Advocacy doesn’t just lead to change, it defines it. PVA’s Government Relations experts and General Counsel team stand at the forefront of influence, working with policymakers to promote, defend, and uphold the rights of veterans with disabilities and the broader disability community. They lead efforts on Capitol Hill and in the courts to secure the benefits, compensation, and equitable treatment that veterans, their dependents, and survivors have earned. Together, these tireless professionals embody the Power of Advocacy—standing firm for our nation’s heroes and never taking “no” for an answer.
PVA INFLUENCER CAMPAIGN
#BarriersStillExist
ELEVATING VETERAN VOICES
PVA’s Executive Committee holds POLITICO newspapers featuring PVA ads calling for protections for specialized VA healthcare during a testimony on Capitol Hill.
PVA GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
The Challenge
Political gridlock, partisanship, and strained VA budgets can stunt legislative progress and hamper the passage of life-changing legislation.
The Solution
PVA is the leading advocate for veterans with catastrophic disabilities. We fight for a strong SCI/D system of care within the VA; civil freedoms, including safe and accessible air travel; robust caregiver support; and other policies that impact our members, so that veterans with SCI/D are not left behind.
Power in Numbers
2,900+
Advocates joined PVAction Force—PVA’s national grassroots advocacy network with 4,100+ total actions taken
300+
400+
Veterans/members empowered by major PVA webinars on topics like caregivers, air travel, and policy priorities
PVA Congressional office visits by 150+ PVA leaders during PVA’s Advocacy Legislation Seminar, a three-day event where veterans engage in advocacy training and meet with their congressional representatives about PVA’s policy priorities
18+
PVA testimonies/hearings on Capitol Hill
PVA LEGISLATIVE WINS
✔ Better Care at Home: PVA helped pass the Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, expanding in-home care, lifting outdated limits, and strengthening support for veterans’ caregivers.
✔ Safer Air Travel: PVA pushed for change and now new rules require airlines to handle wheelchairs properly, better train staff, and keep travelers more informed.
✔ Easier Airport Screening: PVA built bipartisan support to pass the VETS Safe Travel Act, giving service-connected disabled veterans free TSA Pre® access.
Paralyzed Veterans sacrificed their bodies for us.
Don’t make them sacrifice access to life-saving VA care, too.
Because of PVA…
Congress constructed and unveiled new accessible drop-off zones on Capitol Hill in March 2025, a change directly inspired by PVA’s 2021 testimony on accessibility barriers. The zones are located in front of the U.S. Library of Congress and U.S. Supreme Court, with a third in talks.
At a time of partisanship in this country, there’s nothing better than to recognize that all of us can come together to help our veterans… and to help everyone have access and availability into the Capitol. So, I thank our friends at PVA for helping us push this along.”
—Rep. Bryan Steil (R-WI), Committee on House Administration Chairman
WATCH OUR PSA: BARRIERS STILL EXISTFOR EVERYONE
PVA OFFICE OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL
The Challenge
The legal system is complex, slow, and difficult to navigate. Barriers such as incorrect readings of the law, lost records, and long delays cause many veterans to give up or accept less than they have earned and deserve.
The Solution
PVA challenges unjust decisions and sets national precedents in veterans’ law. Our three specialized programs cover the full legal journey: the National Appeals Office handles Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA) cases where the VA has denied benefits to claimants; the Veterans Appeals Litigation Office argues denied BVA appeals in the federal courts; and our attorneys partner with our Government Relations Advocacy team and outside law firms on class actions and landmark access cases.
Power in Numbers
100%
Favorable decision rating with the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims and before the VA’s Board of Veterans’ Appeals
$759,196
Highest single award bestowed to a veteran
Because of PVA…
$8.5 million
Direct benefits recovered for veterans in the federal courts.
+$9.7 million
Total PVA client recoveries (combined court and BVA awards)
A veteran who had been fighting the VA over a claim since 1992 received decades of denials, secured their full retroactive benefits.
We feel blessed that PVA fought for us when no one else would.”
—Veteran client
THE POWER OF COMMUNITY
Access and accessibility aren’t luxuries—they are lifelines. Our licensed architects work alongside veterans, engineers, and healthcare professionals to ensure that homes, hospitals, and public spaces are designed for true accessibility and dignity. That same spirit extends beyond blueprints and building codes. Through adaptive sports, recreation, and wellness activities, PVA helps communities open doors to participation, purpose, and possibility. Together, these programs embody the Power of Community: when barriers come down and confidence, independence, and connection rise.
CREATING A BARRIER-FREE AMERICA
In FY25, PVA provided pro bono architectural consultations with venues nationwide, including the Buffalo Bills’ Highmark Stadium and L’Oréal USA headquarters in New York City, ensuring accessibility for every staff member, leader, and patron. This year, we even honored U.S. Bank Stadium with our Barrier-Free America Award (BFAA) for exemplifying the best in accessible design.
PVA ARCHITECTURE
The Challenge
Finding trustworthy, accessibility-literate contractors can be hard. In addition, many VA SCI/D facilities and public spaces, like restaurants, are outdated and completely unnavigable – leaving many feeling alone and unwelcomed. Without our help, people with mobility disabilities can face dangerous barriers in their communities, scarce parking, and homes that simply don’t accommodate their unique needs.
The Solution
PVA provides free architectural consultation to the community and participates in writing national building codes that are used and embraced around the world. We connect people to resources and reputable building engineers who understand VA grants. We also advocate for facility upgrades and home modifications that return dignity and ease back into daily life.
Power in Numbers
75+
PVA consultations with individuals and families
350+
Attendees at seven national accessible design presentations
Because of PVA…
7
VA infrastructure improvements completed (including a therapy gym, a VA SCI/D Medical Center parking lot, and a flood damage restoration)
A young girl with cerebral palsy now has the freedom to move through her new home with independence and joy. After her parents attended PVA’s accessible design workshop at the 2024 New York Metro Abilities Expo, they reached out for a plan review before construction began. PVA’s architects recommended vital adjustments, such as widening hallways, expanding the bathroom, and reconfiguring the kitchen, to ensure their daughter could grow into the space without limits.
Every day, I’m grateful for the changes PVA helped us make. Now our daughter can go anywhere she wants in her own home—and that means everything.”
— Kristi, PVA Architecture client
PVA SPORTS & RECREATION
The Challenge
Despite the transformative impact of adaptive sports and recreation on mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing, significant barriers to participation persist for disabled veterans. These include inaccessible venues, limited adaptive equipment, high travel costs, and health needs specific to SCI/D.
The Solution
PVA removes these barriers to ensure that every veteran has the opportunity to experience the power of adaptive sports. It offers 60 year-round adaptive events that provide a supportive space for veterans and athletes with disabilities to rebuild strength, confidence, and independence.
Power in Numbers
1900+
Participants in sports, recreation, and wellness programs
14
PVA national annual sports offerings
Because of PVA…
60
PVA adaptive sports and recreation activities offered annually
208 Online fitness classes per year
Ten veterans and their caregivers tried adaptive hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, and horseback riding for the first time as part of PVA’s inaugural Outdoor Experience program in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Designed exclusively for PVA members, the program offers an immersive opportunity to engage in outdoor activities that promote physical and mental health, skill development, and connection.
Thank you so much for that wonderful outdoor adventure … and taking such good care of us.”
—Caregiver participant
89
24
23
159
total athletes
77
U.S. Navy oldest athlete events including 11 Paralympic Sports youngest athlete novices
U.S. Air Force
U.S. Army
U.S. Marine Corps
U.S. National Guard
98
48
59
Texas: state with the most athletes
397
32
529 states represented returning veterans volunteers women athletes PVA chapters represented VA’s represented
1800+
PUTTING ADAPTIVE SPORTS ON THE MAP
PVA hosted the 8th Annual Wheelchair Rugby Invitational in Louisville, KY in February 2025. This award-winning event has been named the tournament of the year two out of the last three years by the United States Wheelchair Rugby Association. Now the largest adaptive rugby event in the nation, the event drew 219 athletes - including 9 Paralympians—to go head-to-head in 20 games in pursuit of the coveted PVA Code of Honor Cup.
Later in the year, PVA co-hosted the 43rd National Veterans Wheelchair Games with the VA in New Orleans, LA in July 2024. The event kicked off with help from renowned sports anchor Hannah Storm, who hosted Opening Ceremonies. Veteran athletes from across the world look forward to this signature event every year.
WATCH OUR PUSHING BOUNDARIES PSA
EDUCATING THE WORLD
Over the last decade alone, PVA has written and distributed resources in over 60 countries, in four languages. From Paraplegia News (PN) and Sports ’N Spokes to our groundbreaking Clinical Practice Guidelines, PVA’s publications inform, educate, and inspire veterans and civilians alike. PVA’s Clinical Practice Guidelines and Consumer Guides are used by medical professionals and rehabilitation specialists everywhere to define best practices for spinal cord injury and disease care around the world.
Sports N Spokes: 10,979 Readership, 1,152 Circulation
When power, purpose, and partnership align, anything is possible. From multi-year commitments and employee volunteer opportunities to high-visibility cause campaigns and in-store activations, brands partner with PVA and see their values translate into action. PVA’s Corporate Development team engage existing and perspective partners by inspiring their customers and creating tangible change for veterans, their families, and caregivers across the nation. Together, we’re proving that doing good is also good business.
WATCH TEAM PENSKE’S PARTNERSHIP VIDEO
Mark P. U.S. Navy Veteran PVA Member
The Challenge
Rising costs, hiring freezes, and market volatility have made it increasingly difficult for companies to sustain charitable giving, sponsorships, and long-term partnerships. Competing priorities and tighter budgets often force companies, sponsors, and even donors to scale back on philanthropic initiatives—right when the need for accessible design, employment opportunities, and healthcare advocacy is needed most.
The Solution
PVA’s corporate development efforts ignited new possibilities in FY25 with partnerships that expanded into more diverse audiences. We partnered with beauty giants L’Oréal USA and Lancôme, secured sponsorships with telecom leader Verizon, and teamed up with global food manufacturer General Mills. Through major gifts, sponsorships, and innovative cause marketing campaigns, our current and future partners continue to help fuel PVA’s mission.
Because of PVA…
Members of the disability community will be able to put on their makeup more independently, thanks to Lancome’s groundbreaking HAPTA device, a handheld, ultra-precise smart makeup applicator for users with limited hand and arm mobility. This device was enhanced by more than 90 PVA members beta testing the product. As a result of this partnership, PVA is helping to make beauty accessible for all.
WATCH OUR LANCÔME X PVA VIDEO
SPOTLIGHT
Each new partner made a meaningful imprint on FY25:
L’Oréal selected PVA for their annual “Have a Beautiful Day” activation, which brought wellness and smiles to 75 veterans in three cities: Tampa, Florida, El Segunda, California, and Newark, New Jersey on Nov. 12, 2024.
Lancôme also sponsored the 2024 National Veterans Wheelchair Games and PVA’s 2024 Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat, which together was attended by more than 117 women veterans, as well as released a joint video, launched an in-store activation, and even kicked off an influencer campaign together.
Rouses Markets invited shoppers across Louisiana to donate to PVA at checkout, kicking off the partnership with a major announcement via the New Orleans Saints’ radio broadcast.
Across industries and across America, these organizations have joined forces with PVA, fueling our mission through sponsorships, major gifts, and cause marketing. Their support ensures every veteran with SCI/D can live with independence, dignity, and opportunity.
Since our partnership with PVA started in 2015, we are proud to have contributed more than $10 million and remain committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of veterans with spinal cord injuries and diseases.”
—Robert H. Kurnick, Jr., President of Penske Automotive Group
All of these partnerships reflect a growing national recognition that PVA is changing lives and fulfilling our promise to support our nation’s heroes. And that is a mission worth standing behind.
Honoring the Legacy of Jeffrey M. Carlton
Jeff Carlton grew up among the heroes of the Greatest Generation, and their values of service and sacrifice would define both his business success and his quiet generosity. The founder of Press Forge, Jeff built his company on principles of integrity, quality, and care for others—principles that now live on through the Jeffrey Carlton Charitable Foundation.
What began with a modest $10 gift to Paralyzed Veterans of America in 1993 has grown into one of the most extraordinary philanthropic partnerships in our history: more than $45 million dedicated to ensuring that veterans and caregivers receive the care, advocacy, and opportunity they deserve.
Today, Mike and Donna Buxton carry forward Jeff’s legacy with unwavering compassion and leadership. “I appreciate that PVA is run by veterans, for veterans,” said Mike. “You take the money and turn it into impact.” Donna adds, “Jeff took great pride in caring for his employees and their families. I think he’d be proud to see how his gift is now helping families across the country.”
Through their leadership, the Foundation provides a living legacy that is reflected in VA hospitals, homes, and communities across the nation, and is a testament to what the power of partnership can achieve.”
Financial Highlights—Affiliated Entities
($ in thousands) Individual
Program Investments
FY25, PVA INVESTED MORE THAN $85 MILLION IN LIFE-CHANGING PROGRAMS
Everyone, from our members and their families to our partners, supporters, and staff, has fueled the Power of PVA. We invite YOU to be a part of that power. Visit PVA.org today to learn more, get involved, and make a difference! THANK YOU!
