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VA Adaptive Sports Programs for Veterans

by | Oct 21, 2021

When you think about Military benefits, who do you think is covered? Most people think about the benefits available for active duty Service Members and Veterans, but Military benefits are so much more than that. Did you know there are also benefits available for military spouses? These benefits can be valuable in helping Military spouses navigate Military life, especially when their significant other is away on deployment. So, what benefits are available for military spouses? There are tons of benefits available, far too many to list here, but here is a list of our Top Seven benefits available for Military Spouses. Some of these are available automatically, and some you will require you to apply. Regardless, they are all benefits that are worth checking out. #1 Transferred GI Bill Benefits Service members and Veterans can transfer their education benefits to their spouses or their children. There are some limitations around this, but this is an excellent benefit that Military spouses can take advantage of if their husband or wife isn't planning on using all of their education benefits on themselves. Military spouses can even use these benefits up to 15 years after their spouse leaves the service. #2 Free On-Base Classes Several free classes and resources are offered for Military spouses on-base. These can include everything from classes on processing the challenges of military life to resources for families and even resources for finding a job. Check on your base to see what classes and resources are available for you to utilize. #3 Family Service Members' Group Life Insurance (FSGLI) Service members can enroll their family members in this program for life insurance coverage that spans from $10,000 up to $100,000. There are a few restrictions to this program, such as dependent coverage can't exceed the scope held by the Service member. FSGLI is a great resource to ensure that everyone is adequately covered and can be cared for in a time of need. #4 Free Healthcare All active duty Military personnel and their dependents receive free medical care. It can include everything from doctor's appointments to medical treatments and even medicine that can be purchased on base. #5 Employment Opportunities There are several programs and events available to help military spouses find employment. One of these resources is the Military Spouse Employment Partnership hosted by the Department of Defense (DoD). This program helps to pair Military spouses with partner employers that have committed to hiring military spouses. It is an excellent way for military spouses to find valuable employment with an employer who understands a military spouse's needs. #6 Childcare Most military bases have daycare centers available for service members to use. This childcare service isn't free; however, it is typically much more affordable than other civilian childcare options. If you don't live near a base or there isn't availability at the on-base daycare, you can also apply to receive a subsidized allowance to pay for civilian daycare centers as long as they are approved. #7 Recreation Benefits Military Welfare and Recreation (MWR) manages most recreation facilities on every base, and these activities are part of your benefits as a MilSpouse. Some of the things that can be included are gyms, pools, bowling, golf, and even classes like a dance. Each base has different services, so you will want to contact your local MWR office to see what is available in your area. These are just a few of the fantastic benefits that are available for Military spouses. There are so many more, up to and including perks offered through The National Park Service and several different hotels and travel destinations. Being a Military spouse can be challenging, so these benefits are available to help make your life a little easier. Utilize as many of these benefits and resources as you need to ensure that your experience as a Military spouse is just as successful as your partner's Military career

The VA Office of National Sport Programs and Special Events provides Veterans with opportunities for health through adaptive sports and therapeutic arts programs. The events focused on specialized rehabilitation activities that allow Veteran independence, community engagement, well-being, and improved quality of life.

ACTIVITIES

There are a wide range of interests and activities, such as the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic, the National Veterans Golden Age Games, the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, and much more offered at the events.

ADAPTIVE SPORTS GRANT

An Adaptive Sports Grant Program is offered through the VA to ensure that all Veterans can participate in these events. These grants are awarded to qualifying organizations to plan, develop, manage, and implement programs that provide opportunities to participate in adaptive sports for disabled Veterans.

ELIGIBILITY

Organizations might be eligible for a grant if they are a non-federal entity with significant experience managing a large-scale adaptive sports program. Criteria for inclusion is defined as programs that are (1) affiliated with a National Paralympic Committee or a National Governing Body authorized to provide Paralympic sports, (2) an adaptive sports program of a National Governing Body that meets additional requirements, or (3) an adaptive sports program in which at least 50 persons with disabilities participate or the eligible participants reside in at least five different congressional districts.

LEARN MORE

You can learn more about participating in these Adaptive Sports Programs or applying to host an event here.

Contact Us

Have a question about your Veteran benefits? You can email us today! If you are within one-year pre to post-military separation, you can enroll in our FREE program by setting up a call with one of our transition coaches.