Paralyzed Veterans of America Reveals Gala Advisory Committee of Influential Leaders
On September 25, 2026, Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) unveiled the formation of its Gala Advisory Committee, a remarkable group comprising nine notable figures across various sectors including racing, retail, beauty, and marketing. This coalition is set to provide vital philanthropic support for PVA's upcoming One of One Gala scheduled for September 9, 2027, in New York City. Each member of this distinguished committee has a personal connection to PVA and is deeply committed to advancing the organization's mission and serving the wider disability community.
Carl Blake, a U.S. Army veteran and the CEO of PVA, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the committee's formation, stating, "PVA was founded 80 years ago on the belief that we look out for each other, and that belief remains just as true today. The Gala Advisory Committee expands that belief system beyond our immediate community, bringing in corporate leaders who not only share this philosophy but have also established a legacy of impact. Their expertise and influence in purpose-driven nonprofit sectors will significantly enhance our One of One Gala, furthering our mission of advocacy and support for veterans."
The committee's responsibilities will encompass regular meetings throughout the year focused on increasing awareness of PVA's unique mission and strengthening corporate partnerships. The diverse backgrounds of the committee members are seen as instrumental to expanding PVA's reach and ensuring its impact continues to flourish globally. Among the prominent members are:
Additionally, honorary members include Mike and Donna Buxton, trustees of The Jeffrey Carlton Charitable Foundation.
Stephanie Grotta articulated the mission of the committee, emphasizing, "PVA's vital work transforms lives every day. By uniting leaders from various industries, we can broaden our support for PVA’s essential programs and ensure that veterans with catastrophic disabilities have access to the advocacy, resources, and opportunities they deserve."
This announcement precedes the anticipated launch of PVA's One of One campaign, celebrating the significant milestones that have made PVA a unique organization over its 80-year history. The campaign and the upcoming gala will honor the individuals and partnerships that have defined the organization, raising necessary funds to support future advocacy and service initiatives. The gala promises to gather a diverse group of leaders from business, government, philanthropy, sports, and the veteran community to recognize PVA's extraordinary contributions.
By supporting PVA's One of One Gala, individuals and corporations become part of a committed community that champions opportunity, accessibility, and independence for veterans living with spinal cord injuries, diseases such as MS and ALS, and all individuals with disabilities. For detailed information on the gala and sponsorship opportunities, interested parties can reach out via email at [email protected]
About Paralyzed Veterans of America:
Founded in 1946, PVA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the only congressionally chartered veterans service group focusing solely on the welfare and representation of veterans with spinal cord injuries or diseases. Their mission includes ensuring access to earned benefits, overseeing care in VA spinal cord injury units, and funding research for better care and cures for paralysis. PVA actively advocates for accessibility in public spaces, provides career services, and supports health and rehabilitation through various programs.
With over 70 offices and 33 chapters, Paralyzed Veterans of America serves veterans, families, and caregivers across all 50 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. To explore more about PVA, visit PVA.org.
Carl Blake, a U.S. Army veteran and the CEO of PVA, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the committee's formation, stating, "PVA was founded 80 years ago on the belief that we look out for each other, and that belief remains just as true today. The Gala Advisory Committee expands that belief system beyond our immediate community, bringing in corporate leaders who not only share this philosophy but have also established a legacy of impact. Their expertise and influence in purpose-driven nonprofit sectors will significantly enhance our One of One Gala, furthering our mission of advocacy and support for veterans."
The committee's responsibilities will encompass regular meetings throughout the year focused on increasing awareness of PVA's unique mission and strengthening corporate partnerships. The diverse backgrounds of the committee members are seen as instrumental to expanding PVA's reach and ensuring its impact continues to flourish globally. Among the prominent members are:
- - Gretchen Littlefield, CEO of Moore Group
- - Jonathan Gibson, EVP of Marketing and Business Development at Penske Corporation
- - Kelly Thompson, SVP LUXE-Communications at L'Oréal USA
- - Nick Iadevaio, Principal at InnerSource Leadership Advisors
- - Ryan and Karen Lake, long-time advocates for PVA
- - Stephanie Grotta, VP of Responsible Sourcing and Sustainable Capabilities at Target Corporation
Additionally, honorary members include Mike and Donna Buxton, trustees of The Jeffrey Carlton Charitable Foundation.
Stephanie Grotta articulated the mission of the committee, emphasizing, "PVA's vital work transforms lives every day. By uniting leaders from various industries, we can broaden our support for PVA’s essential programs and ensure that veterans with catastrophic disabilities have access to the advocacy, resources, and opportunities they deserve."
This announcement precedes the anticipated launch of PVA's One of One campaign, celebrating the significant milestones that have made PVA a unique organization over its 80-year history. The campaign and the upcoming gala will honor the individuals and partnerships that have defined the organization, raising necessary funds to support future advocacy and service initiatives. The gala promises to gather a diverse group of leaders from business, government, philanthropy, sports, and the veteran community to recognize PVA's extraordinary contributions.
By supporting PVA's One of One Gala, individuals and corporations become part of a committed community that champions opportunity, accessibility, and independence for veterans living with spinal cord injuries, diseases such as MS and ALS, and all individuals with disabilities. For detailed information on the gala and sponsorship opportunities, interested parties can reach out via email at [email protected]
About Paralyzed Veterans of America:
Founded in 1946, PVA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the only congressionally chartered veterans service group focusing solely on the welfare and representation of veterans with spinal cord injuries or diseases. Their mission includes ensuring access to earned benefits, overseeing care in VA spinal cord injury units, and funding research for better care and cures for paralysis. PVA actively advocates for accessibility in public spaces, provides career services, and supports health and rehabilitation through various programs.
With over 70 offices and 33 chapters, Paralyzed Veterans of America serves veterans, families, and caregivers across all 50 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. To explore more about PVA, visit PVA.org.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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