VMI Joins with PVA to Offer Operation Independence Program

• By Laurie Watanabe
• Nov 15, 2011

Having resources available is one thing; helping people to effectively use them is another.

And that’s one of the reasons that Vantage Mobility International (VMI) has joined with Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) to form Operation Independence, a program aimed at educating qualifying veterans about and helping them to navigate the adapted automotive vehicle buying process.

Federal Grant 21-4502 can make it possible for disabled veterans to purchase vehicles such as the wheelchair-accessible vans offered by VMI. The manufacturer noted that the grant was recently increased from $11,500 to $18,900. But another challenge is making veterans aware of the grant and helping them to take advantage of the opportunity.

The new Operation Independence program, says VMI President Doug Eaton, will help accomplish those goals.

“Through this national program, we’ll help raise awareness of the federal grant money that is available to our vets to help them purchase a new mobility vehicle,” Eaton said. “We’ll also explain how the national VMI Select Dealer Network can fast track their purchase of a quality mobility van and provide important vehicle maintenance after the sale.”

Al Kovach, national senior VP of the PVA said Federal Grant 21-4502 is underutilized by eligible veterans. “This partnership with VMI’s Operation Independence,” he added, “is so important… as it supports Paralyzed Veterans’ Mission: ABLE campaign, which enables severely disabled veterans to secure care, benefits and jobs, and rebuild their lives.”

VMI is offering a $1,000 coupon to veterans who qualify for the 21-4502 grant and have not previously used the grant. The coupon can be used as a cash-back rebate or can be applied toward a vehicle down payment.

VMI has also created an Operation Independence Web site to educate veterans and their families about the auto allowance grant and the Operation Independence program. Click here to visit the Operation Independence Web site. VMI is donating $1 to the PVA, up to $10,000, for every “like” registered on Facebook.