VA Awards $667,797 for Georgia Adaptive Sports Grants
- The Department of Veterans Affairs awarded $667,797 in grants to community-based organizations in Georgia that provide adaptive sports programs.
- The statewide allocation aims to strengthen recreational and competitive opportunities that help disabled veterans build confidence and maintain active lifestyles.
- The Augusta area serves as a significant hub for veteran athletes who participate in competitive adaptive sports.
The Department of Veterans Affairs awarded $667,797 in grants to community-based organizations in Georgia that provide adaptive sports programs. This funding is part of a broader federal initiative distributing $16 million to 91 organizations nationwide to advance adapted sports programs for veterans and active-duty service members.
Federal Grants Expand Veteran Access to Adaptive Sports Across Georgia
The statewide allocation aims to strengthen recreational and competitive opportunities that help disabled veterans build confidence and maintain active lifestyles. Activities funded through the initiative include archery, skiing, cycling, wheelchair softball, hunting, and fishing. Federal officials note that these programs serve as vital rehabilitation tools to improve overall well-being and independence. Since the establishment of the Adaptive Sports Grant Program, the VA has distributed over $150 million nationwide.
Local Athletes and Health Programs Anchor Augusta Area Participation
The Augusta area serves as a significant hub for veteran athletes who participate in competitive adaptive sports. In July, 19 veteran athletes and therapists from the VA Augusta Health Care System traveled to compete in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games. Local competitors representing the region include Dr. Lisa Maddox, Amy Dotson, and Justin Hall from Grovetown; Jeanette Thompson and Cynthia Todd from Augusta; Scott Winkler from Appling; and Michael Bishop from Beech Island.
Local Leadership Emphasizes Community Connection Through Recreation
Regional VA leadership points to the tangible impact these financial awards have on local veterans managing disabilities.
Through these grants, we’re strengthening access to adaptive sports programs that make a meaningful difference in the lives of Georgia Veterans.
James Doelling, Interim Director
Interim Director James Doelling added that the support expands opportunities for veterans to stay active, build confidence, and connect with others through recreation and competition. A similar sentiment was shared by J. Ronald Johnson, Interim Executive Director of the Atlanta VA Health Care System, who emphasized the role of recreation in veteran rehabilitation.
The Department of Veterans Affairs has awarded more than $150 million through the Adaptive Sports Grant Program since its inception.