Even when paralyzed, some veterans continue to serve all veterans.

For more than 64 years, the Paralyzed Veterans of America has been on a mission to change the lives and build the futures of seriously injured heroes.

"We advocate for spinal cord injured veterans and their health care benefits," Ernie Butler, the executive director of the Northwest Chapter - Paralyzed Veterans of America, said during a recent telephone conversation.

"We also advocate for legislation on the state and federal levels for health care, recreational and disabled services."

The Northwest Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (NWPVA) was founded in 1977 and has grown to over 400 members in Washington, Alaska and Montana.

The chapter is located in Burien, WA at 616 SW 152nd Street, Suite B.

NWPVA's mission coordinates efforts through programs that create the following services.

• Provide opportunities for health promotion, employment, sports, recreation, service and camaraderie for paralyzed veterans.

• Elevate society's understanding about the attitudinal physical and legal barriers that confront persons with disabilities.

• Advocate for and monitor the delivery of high quality and appropriate health care benefits and service.

• Cooperate with and seek the support of other groups and individuals that share NWPVA's objectives.

• Educate the public on the ongoing needs and current contribution of America's veterans.

"The Combined Federal Campaign is a tremendous help to us," Butler continued.  

"For the past 37 years, the NWPVA has never failed to use 80 to 90 percent of every dollar received directly for services for paralyzed veterans.  We are very proud of that record."

The NWPVA's CFC contribution number is 48360.

For more information, please visit www.nwpva.org, call 1-800-336-9782 or email Butler at ErnieB@nwpva.org.