New England PVA

Chapter Virtual Town Hall
2024-07-01 11:00 (America/New_York) | Zoom Online
The PVA Medical Services team is planning a site survey to the West Roxbury VA SCI/D Center and Brockton Long-Term Care Center on July 9-11, 2024. In preparation for that visit, we will be hosting a virtual Town Hall via Zoom on Monday, July 1st at 11:00AM. The feedback you provide at this Town Hall will be critical to the success of PVA’s site survey. They are interested in top concerns, challenges, and positive feedback regarding the care that you and our Chapter have received over this past year at the VA. We hope you can join us, and here is the Zoom link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88421598451?pwd=[REDACTED]

VA Field Day & Cookout
2024-06-22 10:00 - 15:00 | Brockton VA
Brockton VA
Field events will be:
Bocce, disc golf, corn hole, ladder toss.
Lunch will be served at 11:30.

NEPVA Women's Veteran Inaugural Zoom
2024-04-30 12:00 - 13:00
NEPVA women veteran network flyer

MS Informational Zoom "Ask a Social Worker"
2024-04-16 17:30 - 18:30
All NEPVA members with MS and their caregivers are invited to an informational zoom on April 16th at 5:30 p.m. with VA social workers Michelle Turcotte-Smail and Tina Birdsall. Co-hosted by NEPVA Director Chuck Houle, the zoom will include a brief presentation on benefits available to veterans with MS followed by an informational Q&A session.
Presenters:
Chuck Houle: Member of the New England Chapter Board of Directors and Chapter MS lead to National PVA.
Michelle Turcotte-Smail, LICSW:
Spinal Cord Injuries and Disorders Clinic and Polytrauma Clinic Social Work Coordinator at the White River Junction VA Medical Center. Michelle has worked for Veterans Health Administration for 14 years in the Spinal Cord Injury/Disorders Clinic, Polytrauma Clinic, Primary Care, and Geriatrics.
Cristina Birdsall, LSCW:
Rreceived her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from University of Connecticut and her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Southern Connecticut State University. She began her social work career at the West Haven VA in 2012 on the inpatient hospital units before transitioning to the Spinal Cord Coordinator position in 2016. Tina took over the role as ALS Coordinator in 2020.
Please contact Kristen McCone Gordon at kristen@pvanewengland.org with any questions on this event or NEPVA Veterans with MS program.
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81131798705?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 811 3179 8705 Passcode: [REDACTED]

Spaulding Adaptive Sports Clinic for those with MS
2024-03-29 10:00 - 13:00
Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers
Information Session & Demo Event
The Boston Home, 2049 Dorchester Avenue, Boston MA 02124
Friday, March 29, 2024, 10 am -1 pm, Free Admission
In honor of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Awareness Month, The Boston Home is proud to welcome Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers (SASC) for an information session and demo event. The Boston Home is a community for adults with MS and other advanced neurological disorders offering residential care as well as wellness programs. Join us to meet the SASC team, learn about the adaptive sports equipment and programs they offer, and find new ways to stay active while living with MS. For more information or to RSVP, please contact Victoria Stevens, Director of Communications at The Boston Home, 617-326-4310 or vstevens@thebostonhome.org.

Veterans with MS Informational Zoom: Understanding SSDI Benefits and Eligibility with National Service Office Michael Snape
2023-12-07 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom Meeting
All NEPVA members with MS and/or their caregivers are invited to an informational zoom on December 7th at noon. Mr. Michael Snape is highly skilled at securing benefits and VA assistance for veterans with MS. Co-hosted by Director Chuck Houle, the zoom will include a brief presentation by Mr. Snape followed by an informal Q & A session for members.
Zoom link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88911735514?pwd=[REDACTED]
In the meantime, please save the date Thursday, December 7th at noon
and contact Kristen (kristen@pvanewengland.org) with any questions!

New England Boccia Camp -- Marriott Crown Colony 1200 Crown Colony Dr, Quincy, MA
2023-11-11 10:00 - 2023-11-12 16:00
This will be an all-inclusive event for everyone from novices to experienced players. The camp will start with a Boccia 101 session on the Saturday morning. This will cover general gameplay and rules to get started. Participants will then get a chance to play boccia in a 1 on 1 tournament.
This will be followed with a chance to play as team in a 2 vs 2 or 3 vs 3 tournament on Sunday.
Saturday hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with lunch being provided
Sunday hours 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. without lunch being provided
To register for this free camp, register at
https://beta.bookabl.io/…/events/y0wgjuBWplPvutuKaM1fn

Webinar - “Research is the Foundation for Successful Advocacy.”
2023-10-17 15:00 - 17:00 | Zoom Online
On October 17, at 3:00 p.m. E.T., PVA will host a webinar titled, “Research is the Foundation for Successful Advocacy.” Join PVA’s Research and Government Relations teams to learn about the ways you can be a part of a research team. Use your lived experience to help make a difference in the advisement of science and policy.
Please register in advance for this webinar: https://pva.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_IWG81EsUTv-FAZYA-8nCKQ. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the event. This webinar is for all PVA members. Please share!
The webinar will be recorded for those unable to attend the live presentation.

Monument Beach Sportsman Club Shoot
2023-10-11 11:00 - 15:00
Monument Beach Sportsman Club
199 Mcarthur Blvd., Buzzards Bay

NEPVA Bass Trail in Maine
2023-09-29 08:00 - 2023-10-01 17:00
September 29 – October 1
Maine Bass Tournament, Camp Wavus, Maine

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The NEPVA Bass Trail is run by members of the American Eagle Bass Anglers with the support of Local and Federation members.
Anglers with disabilities are paired with boaters for a day of competitive fishing. The partners compete as a team and the team with the largest weight for their limit takes home the first place trophies. The anglers can compete in as many events as possible. Lunker prizes are also awarded for the largest bass taken at each tournament. This tournament trail is completely FREE, there is no entry fee to fish these tournaments.
PLEASE NOTE: All registrations are due 2 weeks prior to the event. (We cannot guarantee a boat will be provided for you if you register less than 2 weeks prior to the event.) Cancellations should be made by calling the Sports Director at 800-660-1181 #5 at least 5 days in advance of the event.
Register at the bottom of the page HERE.

Wampanoag Rod and Gun Club Shoot
2023-09-28 11:00 - 15:00
Wampanoag Rod and Gun Club
78 Cross St., Seekonk, MA

Shawmee Shoot
2023-09-13 11:00 - 15:00

Bellingham Shoot
2023-09-08 11:00 - 15:00

NEPVA Bass Trail on Lake Winnipesaukee
2023-09-08 08:00 - 2023-09-10 17:00
September 8- 10
Lake Winnipesaukee, Camp Robindel, Moultonborough, NH

The NEPVA Bass Trail is run by members of the American Eagle Bass Anglers with the support of Local and Federation members.
Anglers with disabilities are paired with boaters for a day of competitive fishing. The partners compete as a team and the team with the largest weight for their limit takes home the first place trophies. The anglers can compete in as many events as possible. Lunker prizes are also awarded for the largest bass taken at each tournament. This tournament trail is completely FREE, there is no entry fee to fish these tournaments.
PLEASE NOTE: All registrations are due 2 weeks prior to the event. (We cannot guarantee a boat will be provided for you if you register less than 2 weeks prior to the event.) Cancellations should be made by calling the Sports Director at 800-660-1181 #5 at least 5 days in advance of the event.
Register at the bottom of the page HERE.

NEPVA Charity Golf Classic
2023-08-28 08:00 | Olde Scotland Links Bridgewater, MA, 695 Pine Street, Bridgewater, MA
3rd Annual
New England PVA
Charity Golf Classic
August 28, 2023

The Event
Celebrating over 75 years of services to our Veterans, New England Chapter, Paralyzed Veterans of America is pleased to host the 3rd Annual New England PVA Charity Golf Classic. We invite all companies, individuals, and friends of New England PVA to participate in this grand charity tournament.

Who Benefits
We hope to fill the playing field with 120 golfers to support the free programs and services provided by New England PVA to paralyzed Veterans throughout New England.

Registration & Dinner Tickets
Golf: $600 – Foursome or $150 Single (includes dinner(s))
Dinner Only: $50 per individual.
Awards

Champion Foursome, 2nd and 3rd Place
Closest to the line (Men & Women)
Closest to the Pin (Men & Women)
Putting Contest

Non-Profit
New England Chapter, Paralyzed Veterans of America is a Registered 501(c)3 Non-Profit. EIN: 04-6112881
Schedule

Schedule
Monday, August 28, 2023

8 AM
Welcome guests, Mulligans, raffles, silent auction items, coffee, tea and donuts

9 AM
Shotgun Start

11:30 AM
Hot dog or hamburger with chips and drink at turn or delivered by volunteer.

2:00 PM
Putting Contest & Hors D`oeuvres

3 PM
Awards Dinner Banquet, Roast beef or baked stuffed chicken buffet

Location
Olde Scotland Links
695 Pine St.
Bridgewater, MA
To Register or Learn about Sponsorship Opportunities
GOLFERS SPONSORS
Questions?
Contact: Holly Warshaw
Phone: 508 846-0538
Email: holly@pvanewengland.org

NEPVA Banquet
2023-08-06 17:00 - 22:00 | Italian American War Vets Post, 111 Neil St., Marlboro, MA
Join Us as the Chapter celebrates another year of serving Veterans.

National Wheelchair Veterans Games
2023-07-04 - 2023-07-09
The National Veterans Wheelchair Games is the world’s largest annual wheelchair sports and rehabilitation event solely for military veterans. The event demonstrates the unstoppable character of veterans and seeks to foster wider respect and opportunities for all people with disabilities.
The National Veterans Wheelchair Games is open to all U.S. veterans with spinal cord injuries, amputations, multiple sclerosis, or other central neurological conditions who require a wheelchair for athletic competition. Every year, hundreds of American heroes from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the post-9/11 era compete in this celebration of sport, courage and camaraderie.

Sail to PreVail
2023-06-24 - 2023-06-25 | Fort Adams State Park, Newport, RI, Fort Adams State Park, Newport, RI
Sail To Prevail is a nonprofit that improves the lives of more than 1,000 children and adults including Veterans, each summer, through sailing in their fleet of specially adapted, 20-foot sailboats. Their programs encourage individuals with disabilities to be active participants in the sailing experience. They steer the boat, grind the winches, and trim the sails. The measurable outcomes demonstrate increased self-confidence and leadership skills.

MS and Service Connection - A Conversation with National Service Officer Pete DeMarkis
2023-06-22 10:00 - 11:30 | Zoom Meeting
The NEPVA MS Program Presents: A Conversation with National Service Officer Pete DeMarkis on MS and Service Connection
Location and Time: 10am zoom
Join Zoom Meeting here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82015061262
Meeting ID: 820 1506 1262

NEPVA Bass Trail on the Charles River
2023-06-03 08:00 - 17:00
June 3, 2023
Charles River, Newton Yacht Club, Newton, MA
The NEPVA Bass Trail is run by members of the American Eagle Bass Anglers with the support of Local and Federation members.
Anglers with disabilities are paired with boaters for a day of competitive fishing. The partners compete as a team and the team with the largest weight for their limit takes home the first place trophies. The anglers can compete in as many events as possible. Lunker prizes are also awarded for the largest bass taken at each tournament. This tournament trail is completely FREE, there is no entry fee to fish these tournaments.
PLEASE NOTE: All registrations are due 2 weeks prior to the event. (We cannot guarantee a boat will be provided for you if you register less than 2 weeks prior to the event.) Cancellations should be made by calling the Sports Director at 800-660-1181 #5 at least 5 days in advance of the event.
Register at the bottom of the page HERE.

NEPVA VETERANS WITH MS CURLING EVENT
2023-04-02 09:00 - 17:00 | Cape Cod Curling Club, 37 Highfield Dr., Falmouth, MA, 02540
NEPVA is proud to partner with Home Base on an exciting event to kick off our new Veterans with MS program! This event is open to all veterans, but those with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are especially encouraged to attend! See the information below and don’t hesitate to register – spots will fill up quickly!
Home Base Adventure Series: Curling with the New England Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America
Are you a veteran looking to learn a new sport? Join Home Base and the New England Paralyzed Veterans Association for learn-to-curl lessons at the Cape Cod Curling Club! Build camaraderie and confidence on the ice with an hour-long lesson and hear what services Home Base and the NEPVA can offer you. We will have lessons throughout the day, please select all time slots that work for you.
Paralyzed Veterans of America, New England Chapter (NEPVA) is a congressionally chartered veterans service organization founded in 1947. We have unique expertise on a wide variety of issues involving the special needs of our members – veterans of the armed forces who have experienced spinal cord injury or dysfunction, including those with MS and ALS. This is a veteran-only event and though this event is open to all veterans, those with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are especially encouraged to attend.
The event will be on Sunday, April 2nd at the Cape Cod Curling Club, 37 Highfield Drive, Falmouth, MA 02540. The club is fully wheelchair-accessible and parking is free. Tickets are limited for this event and Home Base will likely run a lottery. Register by Wednesday, March 15th at 5 pm for a chance to attend!
Register today here

Bass Trail Tournament - Charles River, Newton Yacht Club, Newton, MA
2022-06-04 | Newton, MA
June 4, 2022
Charles River, Newton Yacht Club, Newton, MA
The NEPVA Bass Trail is run by members of the American Eagle Bass Anglers with the support of Local and Federation members.
Anglers with disabilities are paired with boaters for a day of competitive fishing. The partners compete as a team and the team with the largest weight for their limit takes home the first place trophies. The anglers can compete in as many events as possible. Lunker prizes are also awarded for the largest bass taken at each tournament. This tournament trail is completely FREE, there is no entry fee to fish these tournaments.
PLEASE NOTE: All registrations are due 2 weeks prior to the event. (We cannot guarantee a boat will be provided for you if you register less than 2 weeks prior to the event.) Cancellations should be made by calling the Sports Director at 800-660-1181 #5 at least 5 days in advance of the event.
Register at the bottom of the page HERE.

2021 Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat by Paralyzed Veterans of America
2021-09-30 - 2021-10-03 | Tempe Mission Pams Hotel and Conference Ctr, 60 East 5th Street, Tempe, AZ, 85281, United States
2021 Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat by Paralyzed Veterans of America​

BY WOMEN, FOR WOMEN
They’re service members, family members, caregivers, and so much more. We’re celebrating women who give their all, so they can turn their dreams into reality.
The PVA Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat (formerly WE Served) is an all-expenses-paid retreat that focuses on the holistic well-being of women veterans with disabilities. This immersive and outcomes-driven experience – limited to just 40 attendees – will empower these women to navigate the unique challenges of their everyday lives … and flourish.
Celebrating Women
Participants will enjoy four days of learning and community-building in an inclusive and supportive environment. PVA will assemble a line-up of experts and thought leaders to present education on topics including:

Benefits of Volunteering
Comprehensive Wellness
Education as a Path Forward
Food Is Fuel
PVA’s Employment Program
Stress Management: Change, Coping, and Adaptation
Take Charge! Healthcare Decision Making
Women and Money: Taking Control of Your Financial Future

Women veterans with disabilities will leave this event with the information and tools they need to be UnstoppABLE at home, at work, and in life.
Women Veterans Empowerment Seminar​
Thank you for participating in our Women Veterans Empowerment Seminar. If you missed any of the sessions you can watch the recordings below and find materials in the Online Event Guide.

Summer Sports Clinic - San Diego, CA
2021-09-19 - 2021-09-24 | San Diego, CA, CA, United States
The San Diego VA Medical Center and the National Veterans Sports Programs and Special Events Office invites you to participate in the 2021 National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic This event will promote the value of rehabilitation utilizing a variety of summer leisure activities and adaptive sports. The mission of this innovative program is to provide a training ground for both Veterans and health care providers in exciting outdoor summer sports. Our overall objective is to instill the value of these types of leisure pursuits as a viable means to aid in community re-entry and adjustment. Developing these skills Veterans and therapists will be able to return home and implement a treatment plan emphasizing similar experiences on a regular basis. As part of VA’s continued commitment to Veterans, we are offering this program as a method to educate and build a strong foundation that will further each Veterans’ dedication to their overall rehabilitation, health, and pursuit of a rewarding lifestyle.
The Summer Sports Clinic offers adventure sports and recreational activities such as sailing, surfing, kayaking, and cycling. Complementing the therapy provided in daily rehabilitation programs, the Clinic shares a glimpse of the many exciting recreational opportunities awaiting those Veterans who accept the challenge
All disabilities are subject to review by the National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic medical director and program director.
Check back for registration dates and information.
Important NVSSC Information
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
VA is committed to improving the quality of life for Veterans with disabilities. Participants will develop sports skills and take part in a variety of adaptive sports workshops. Clinic participation demonstrates that having a physical or visual disability is not an obstacle to an active rewarding life.
Founding Sponsor:
Veterans Canteen Service (VCS)
VCS is proud to be a part of the Department of Veterans Affairs. As a self-sustaining entity, VCS provides merchandise and services to Veterans enrolled in VA’s Health Care System, their families, caregivers, VA employees, volunteers and visitors. We are honored to “give back” to the VA through many programs established for the health and well-being of our nation’s heroes. Revenues generated from VCS are used to support a variety of Veteran programs.

TEE Tournament - Iowa City, IA
2021-09-12 - 2021-09-17 | Iowa City, IA, Iowa City, IA, United States
The National Disabled Veterans TEE (Train, Expose, Experience) Tournament (NDVTEE) is a week-long adaptive golf program that is presented by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and DAV (Disabled American Veterans). This annual event promotes rehabilitation by instructing Veterans with visual impairments and other life-changing disabilities in adaptive golf. In addition to adaptive golf Veterans will be introduced to other adaptive recreational sports.
All the activities offered by the NDVTEE Tournament office will give Veterans an opportunity to develop new skills, strengthen their self-esteem, and expand fellowship and camaraderie among the participants. The events provide eligible Veterans with an opportunity to participate in therapeutic adaptive sporting and other recreational activities; which demonstrates that having a visual impairment or physical disability is a conquerable obstacle to an active, fulfilling and rewarding life.

Off Road Cycling - Auburn, NH
2021-08-10 16:00 - 18:00 | Auburn, NH
Off Road Cycling – Auburn, NH
Date: Tuesday Aug 10, 2021
Time: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Location: Auburn, NH
Capacity: 8
Registration Fee: $25, $0.00 for Veterans
Come join Northeast Passage for a “Socially Distant” afternoon ride on the Rockingham Rail Trail and FOMBA trails. Bring your own cycle or use one of ours and ride the wooded trail! Option to ride around fire roads as well. NEP will provide cycles, and assistance with fitting you to your cycle. Ride as much as you want in the time given. Terrain is relatively flat (rail trail) to moderate, if you choose.
We are limited to smaller groups, so please, pre-register for each event and cancel if you cannot make it.
Veteran registration fees for this program are waived due to a grant from the United States Department of Veteran Affairs.

National Veterans Wheelchair Games 2021 - New York, NY
2021-08-08 - 2021-08-13 | New York, NY, United States
The VA New York Harbor Healthcare System is honored to join the National VA and PVA Team to host the 40th National Veterans Wheelchair Games in New York City in the summer of 2021. The National Veterans Wheelchair Games poses an excellent opportunity for Veterans and their families to experience the world’s largest stage in New York City. Look out Big Apple, you are about to be amazed at what our outstanding Veterans can accomplish through adaptive sports!

Download 2021 Full Sponsor Packet
Download 2021 Sponsorship Options and Reservation Form

Download 2021 Poster

Download 2021 Fact Sheet

Kayak Outing by Gaylord Sports Association
2021-07-29 17:00 - 19:00
Kayak Outing by Gaylord Sports Association
Experience the freedom of the open water during a Sports Association’s Adaptive Kayak Outing. Kayak Outings are for individuals who have participated and passed the Sports Association’s Kayak Classes and would like to take their skills to the next level, or just enjoy an outdoor kayak experience. Outings include all the necessary equipment and guidance from both American Canoe Association certified instructors and Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists. Outings are offered during the summer months. This outing will take place on saltwater out of Lighthouse Point in New Haven. Kayaking is not only a great fitness activity, it’s an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, socialize, watch for wildlife, relax and just have fun! There is a $10 fee for kayak outings payable when registering. Essential eligibility also applies so please call the Sports Association at 203-284-2772 for more information!

Golf Clinic by Gaylord Sports Association
2021-07-27 14:00 - 16:15
Golf Clinic by Gaylord Sports Association
Join us for a golf clinic on the South Lawn at Gaylord Specialty Healthcare in Wallingford. This clinic is designed to provide adult golfers with physical disabilities and visual impairments the opportunity to work with a trained PGA professional, Certified Recreation Therapists, and volunteers to adapt the sport of golf, overcome barriers, and support independence. Beginners and returning participants are welcome and all equipment is provided.
There will be 2 sessions from 2:00 PM-3:00PM and 3:15PM-4:15PM( This session will be available once the first session is full). There is a limit of 4 participants per session. There will be driving stations and the putting green will be available. Each golfer will be cycled through each station to allow time at each station. COVID-19 protocols will be used for all attendees and staff. Masks will be required. Pre-registration is required. Contact the Sports Association at 203-284-2772 or sports@gaylord.org to register.

Off-Road Cycling - Stratham, NH
2021-07-13 16:00 - 18:00 | Stratham, NH, Stratham, NH, United States
Off-Road Cycling – Stratham, NH
Date: Tuesday Jul 13, 2021
Time: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Location: Auburn, NH
Capacity: 8
Registration Fee: $25, $0.00 for Veterans
Come join Northeast Passage for a ride through Stratham Hill Park. Bring your own cycle or use one of ours and ride along beautiful fields or wooded trails! NEP will provide cycles, helmets, and assistance with fitting you to your cycle. Whether you’re looking to explore or just looking for a leisurely ride, this is the event for you! Ride as much as you want in the time given. See you on the trail!!
Veteran registration fees for this program are waived due to a grant from the United States Department of Veteran Affairs.
