Doug Curtis & PVA's Amera Shaefer Discuss Veteran Accessibility

In this impactful episode of Kunes Car Convos, Doug Curtis has an inspiring conversation with Amera Shaefer, the Executive Director of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) – Wisconsin Chapter. Seated comfortably in a 2022 Toyota Sienna wheelchair-accessible van, they discuss the incredible work PVA does for veterans living with spinal cord injuries and diseases, the importance of accessibility in everyday life, and how adaptive vehicles like the Toyota Sienna help veterans regain their independence.

The Paralyzed Veterans of America – Wisconsin Chapter is dedicated to ensuring that veterans with spinal cord injuries, diseases, and related conditions receive the care, support, and resources they deserve. Founded on the belief that every veteran should have access to a high quality of life, the organization focuses on four key areas:

• Advocacy: Fighting for the rights of veterans with disabilities, ensuring accessibility in public spaces, employment opportunities, and healthcare services.
• Medical Research and Healthcare: Promoting advancements in spinal cord injury research and ensuring veterans have access to quality medical care.
• Sports and Recreation: Offering adaptive sports and recreational activities to improve physical and mental well-being.
• Veteran Support Services: Providing counseling, peer support, and resources to help veterans navigate daily life.

During the conversation, Amera shares stories of the veterans the organization serves and explains how community support plays a vital role in helping these individuals live independently and with dignity.

For many veterans living with mobility challenges, everyday tasks can present significant obstacles. Transportation, in particular, can be a major hurdle. Without reliable and accessible vehicles, simple activities like going to a doctor’s appointment, visiting family, or running errands become difficult, if not impossible.

Amera emphasizes that mobility is about more than just transportation—it’s about freedom, dignity, and maintaining a sense of normalcy. Accessible vehicles like the Toyota Sienna are not just convenient; they are life-changing for veterans striving to regain their independence.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna showcased in this episode is more than just a minivan—it’s a mobility solution designed to meet the needs of individuals with physical disabilities. Doug and Amera explore some of the van’s key features, including:

🚗 Spacious Interior: Ample room for wheelchairs, passengers, and personal belongings.
🔑 Power Sliding Doors and Ramp: Allow for easy and independent entry and exit.
🪑 Lowered Floor Conversion: Provides greater headroom and comfort while inside.
🛠️ Customizable Adaptive Equipment: Enables individuals to drive the vehicle themselves, fostering independence.
🔋 Hybrid Efficiency: Combines accessibility with impressive fuel economy.

As Amera explains, vehicles like the Sienna are essential tools for veterans to maintain autonomy, attend medical appointments, stay active, and engage with their communities.

One of the key themes in this Kunes Car Convo is the power of community partnerships. Organizations like the Paralyzed Veterans of America rely on local businesses, volunteers, and donors to expand their reach and provide much-needed services.

Kunes Auto Group is honored to support PVA’s mission, recognizing that supporting veterans is not just about saying "thank you"—it's about taking meaningful action. By working together, local businesses and nonprofits can break down barriers, create opportunities, and improve the lives of those who have served our country.

During the conversation, Amera shares touching stories of veterans whose lives have been transformed through accessible vehicles and PVA programs. From regaining the ability to drive after a life-changing injury to participating in adaptive sports, these stories highlight the profound impact that mobility solutions and community support can have.

One story Amera shares is about a veteran who, after receiving an accessible van, was able to take his child to school for the first time since his injury—a seemingly simple act that brought immense joy and a renewed sense of purpose.

Supporting veterans goes beyond words—it takes action. Here’s how you can get involved:

✅ Donate: Contributions help fund essential services and programs for veterans.
✅ Volunteer: Offer your time to assist with events, transportation, or administrative support.
✅ Spread the Word: Share information about PVA to raise awareness of veterans’ needs.
✅ Attend PVA Events: Participate in local fundraisers, adaptive sports events, and community gatherings.

Every act of support helps ensure that veterans living with disabilities receive the care and respect they deserve.

This Kunes Car Convo is more than just a conversation—it’s a reminder of the challenges veterans face and the solutions that can make a real difference. By partnering with organizations like Paralyzed Veterans of America – Wisconsin Chapter, Kunes Auto Group is proud to support those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.

👉 Watch the full conversation between Doug Curtis and Amera Shaefer to learn more about how accessible vehicles are transforming lives and how you can be part of the solution.

Together, we can honor and support our veterans in meaningful ways.