Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America

About this Organization

Colonial Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (Colonial PVA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and chapter of the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated solely to veterans with spinal cord injury or disease (SCI/D), including multiple sclerosis (MS) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Based in Newark, Delaware, it serves approximately 320 members and their families/caregivers across Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, the Philadelphia area, and Washington, D.C. Its mission is to restore hope and improve quality of life by empowering veterans with SCI/D to live with dignity, independence, and purpose. Key services and programs relevant to Delaware’s military and veteran community include:Advocacy — Liaison with VA officials, monitoring of healthcare quality, and support for benefits access and barrier-free community access. Accessibility Needs Program — Grants and support for essential equipment and home/vehicle modifications (wheelchairs, ramps, stairlifts, automatic door openers, prosthetics, and related aids), with over $2.1 million invested to date to remove physical barriers for low-income individuals in Delaware. H.E.A.R.T. (Hoskins Education and Reemployment Training) Program — A 24-week paid fellowship offering individualized career training, professional development, and peer mentorship to help paralyzed and disabled veterans prepare for meaningful employment. Peer support, adaptive sports & recreation, and community events — Activities such as adaptive hunting, kayaking, fishing, bowling, getaways, and virtual support groups that promote rehabilitation, wellness, camaraderie, and independence; plus caregiver support resources. Information, referral, education, and volunteer opportunities — Assistance connecting veterans and families to resources while fostering community engagement.