Help sponsor sending a veteran to the National Veteran Wheelchair Games in Minneapolis, MN next year July 17-22, 2025. The average cost per veteran is $2,000. Regular exercise – including training for and participating in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games – can help our veterans with disabilities: Maintain body weight Combat chronic health conditions such as obesity, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes Gain energy Sleep better Improve mood and self-esteem Reduce anxiety and depression Enjoy new experiences and new friendships Counter the stigma of disability Increase their likelihood of employment, with less absenteeism and more productivity We want veterans with disabilities to feel empowered to apply what they learn at the Wheelchair Games to their daily lives. The experience can also help them meet therapist goals such as managing self-care while traveling, navigating new environments, and improving self-confidence. WASHINGTON, May 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Paralyzed Veterans of America and the Department of Veterans Affairs today announced the 44th Annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games – the largest adaptive sports and rehabilitation event designed exclusively for U.S. military veterans with disabilities – will take place in Minneapolis, Minnesota July 17-22, 2025. The six-day, high-energy event will be comprised of more than 600 athletes, 20+ events, and over 3,000 volunteers from across the world. “We are thrilled to be chosen as the host city for the 44th Annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games,” said Christy Loy of Meet Minneapolis. “We look forward to welcoming all the athletes, supporters, and partners from around the world as we come together to support our nation’s veterans with disabilities.” The National Veterans Wheelchair Games is open to all U.S. veterans with spinal cord injuries, amputations, MS, or other central neurological conditions who require a wheelchair. This event demonstrates the unstoppable character of veterans and seeks to foster wider respect and opportunities for all people with disabilities. Every year, hundreds of American heroes from every branch and era compete in this celebration of sport and camaraderie. “The Wheelchair Games is so much more than an athletic competition,” said U.S. Army Veteran and PVA National President Robert Thomas. “The Wheelchair Games helps veterans develop their core wheelchair skills, build confidence, and re-learn everyday tasks. It also expands their support systems and gives them a sense of community. In short, the Wheelchair Games are everything – impacting virtually every aspect of life.” The Department of Veterans Affairs launched the Wheelchair Games in 1981 with seven events and 77 athletes. PVA joined forces with the VA a short time later, in 1985, to help expand the event’s mission and reach. Since then, the Wheelchair Games has flourished, evolving into the world’s premier adaptive sports event for veterans. “While the VA Minneapolis Health Care System is certainly proud to once again host the Wheelchair Games, it is really the whole Twin Cities that will be hosting these Veterans,” said Minneapolis VA Health Care System Director Pat Kelly. “In 2005, the Wheelchair Games descended on the Twin Cities and showed that disability is merely a concept but does not define the athleticism and competitive spirit of our Veterans. Twenty years later, we are proud to show this still rings true.” In addition to the sporting events, the Wheelchair Games offer infinite sponsorship opportunities, like an onsite expo, over 20 sporting events, and our Kid’s Day program. Additional sponsorship options include our athlete reception, opening and closing ceremonies, and many more. As preparations for the 44th National Veterans Wheelchair Games kick into high gear, VA and PVA are inviting individuals, businesses, and organizations to join them in making this event a resounding success. Whether through sponsorship opportunities, volunteerism, or participation, there are countless ways to get involved and make a meaningful impact. To learn more about the Wheelchair Games, how to get involved or become a sponsor, visit WheelchairGames.org. About Paralyzed Veterans of America Paralyzed Veterans of America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated solely for the benefit and representation of veterans with spinal cord injury or diseases. The organization ensures veterans receive the benefits earned through service to our nation; monitors their care in VA spinal cord injury units; and funds research and education in the search for a cure and improved care for individuals with paralysis. As a life-long partner and advocate for veterans and all people with disabilities, PVA also develops training and career services, works to ensure accessibility in public buildings and spaces, and provides health and rehabilitation opportunities through sports and recreation. With more than 70 offices and 33 chapters, Paralyzed Veterans of America serves veterans, their families, and their caregivers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Learn more at PVA.org. About the United States Department of Veterans Affairs The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a Cabinet-level executive branch department of the federal government charged with providing lifelong healthcare services to eligible military veterans at the 170 VA medical centers and outpatient clinics located throughout the country. Non-healthcare benefits include disability compensation, vocational rehabilitation, education assistance, home loans, and life insurance. The VA also provides burial and memorial benefits to eligible veterans and family members at 135 national cemeteries. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) runs programs benefiting veterans and members of their families. It offers education opportunities and rehabilitation services and provides compensation payments for disabilities or death related to military service, home loan guaranties, pensions, burials, and health care that includes the services of nursing homes, clinics, and medical centers.