(The Center Square) – The Department of Veterans Affairs has provided eight Colorado organizations with over $1.6 million combined to support adaptive sports, recreational activities, and equine therapy for veterans and disabled service members.
The money comes from the VA’s’ Adaptive Sports Grant Program. The grant program aims to create more opportunities for disabled veterans to participate in recreational sports and activities.
“Adaptive sports give our wounded veterans a community and outlet for mental health,” U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper, D-Colorado, said in a statement. “This funding makes it easier for our disabled vets to hit the slopes and enjoy all the outdoor activities that make Colorado special.”
U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colorado, agreed that the funding will improve the quality of life for veterans.
“Our veterans have sacrificed so much to keep our country safe, and we owe them our support after they have served,” Bennet said. “Colorado veterans deserve to live a full and independent life, and this funding will help wounded heroes access athletics and other recreational activities.”
Additionally, VA Secretary Denis McDonough said the programs that received the funding improve veteran mental health.
“These grants give Veterans life-changing opportunities to participate in adaptive sports in the communities where they live all across the country,” McDonough said. “We know adaptive sports and recreational activities can be transformational for Veterans living with disabilities, improving their overall physical and mental health, and also giving them important community with fellow heroes who served.”
Adaptive Adventures is the biggest recipient of this funding. It will get $748,510 to support sports and activities like alpine skiing, climbing, cycling, dragon boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and snowboarding.
Challenge Aspen in Snowmass Village is the second-biggest recipient; it will receive $230,100. It offers sports and activities like alpine skiing, archery, biking, fly fishing, and snowboarding, the release said.
The Adaptive Sports Grant Program from the VA has provided over $119 million in grants over the past nine years.
“This program is one of VA’s many initiatives dedicated to improving the lives of those who have served,” the release said.
