Serving Those Who Served | Jennifer Purser

From The People Who Make Virginia · 44:19

Show by Gray Broughton Injury Law

Jennifer Purser learned first-hand, during an unstable, challenging childhood, how to be resourceful, build networks and contribute to the community, especially when so much else around you is out of your control.Jennifer is Senior Associate Director for Sports and Recreation for the Paralyzed Veterans of America, a Congressionally chartered veterans service organization advocating for veterans with spinal cord injury & disease.This deeply meaningful work gives injured veterans focus, support and purpose, and not just for themselves but for their families and caregivers.But as she explains, it's not as simple as opening the door and they'll come right in. Veterans often need time and the right messenger before they will accept help. The PVA helps provide the resources and encouragement to help veterans make that move, particularly through peer-to-peer support. Because no one is better equipped to understand what you've been through than someone who's gone through it themselves.The Richmond area is a very central point for the military, in southern Virginia and beyond, yet it often does not get the recognition. Look around and you will see veterans and Veteran Service Organizations like the PVA on a regular basis. The opportunities to donate your time and resources are endless, and it all comes back to strengthening our communities, helping those in need and demonstrating our empathy.Consider volunteering, learning more about the PVA's activities, and maybe even join us at the next National Veterans Wheelchair Games, July 14-19 in Orlando!" There is a huge correlation between adaptive sports and people with disabilities, and that instant gratification of really seeing how you can adapt a sporting program to fit your needs." - Jennifer PurserLearn more about Jennifer Purser and the Paralyzed Veterans of America:https://www.accessibilityonline.org/arts-n-rec/speakers/10911/?ret=speakershttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-purser-mhsa-carss-i-carss-ii-2a805211/https://pva.org/https://wheelchairgames.org/Chapters0:00 Jennifer’s path to service11:47 PVA’s mission and support network14:36 Inside the Veterans Wheelchair Games20:39 Expanding sports and recreation22:12 Mental health resources26:34 How the community can get involved29:45 Stories of resilience through sport32:30 Why it's veterans choice to seek care39:05 Peer mentorship and connection41:19 Volunteer with PVAIf we can ever be of help to you, give us a call at 1-877-VETS WIN, or visit https://www.graybroughton.com.

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