Teamwork in Action: GLA Staff and Community Partners Join Forces to Empower Veterans Through Adaptive Sports
By Lauren Bolanos, Office of Communications
On December 5, the greater Los Angeles community came together for a day of resilience, camaraderie, and competition at the 3rd Annual Physical Medical and Rehabilitation Service (PM&RS) Adaptive Sports Invitational, hosted at Brentwood School.
Veterans showcased their strength and resilience by participating in more than 20 adaptive sports, including wheelchair basketball, blind tennis, badminton, lacrosse and golf, along with exciting new additions such as disc golf, swimming, and martial arts.
Behind the scenes, teamwork was the driving force behind the event’s success.
“The event planning actually starts about six months prior,” said Kristin Eneberg-Boldon, Rehabilitation Program Manager at VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System (VAGLAHS). “It truly takes a village, from Center for Development & Civic Engagement, to transportation, strategic planning and communications, with at least 50 to 60 staff members and community partners are involved from start to finish.”
The nursing team collaborated closely with the PM&RS physicians. Together, they worked diligently to ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone involved. This partnership highlights their shared commitment to patient safety and quality care.
“It was very structured,” said Diamond Robinson, a registered nursing resident and Navy Veteran. “We had medical tents stocked with first aid kits and oxygen tanks, and we were stationed across activity areas, from the pool to the tennis courts, to ensure safety.”
Rehabilitation staff tailored each sport, ensuring activities matched each Veteran’s unique abilities and exercise capacity. Many community partners generously contributed their time, equipment, and sport-specific expertise. Together, these combined efforts created a seamless, safe and impactful event for over 80 Veteran participants.
“This event benefits from the entire team’s passion and motivation,” said Eneberg-Boldon. “Staff volunteering creates a bigger impact every year by creating new opportunities for Veterans. It’s about showing them what’s possible despite the physical and mental challenges and improving quality of life through sports.”
Robinson echoed that sentiment, noting that adaptive sports open doors for Veterans of all abilities. She emphasized that inclusion is at the heart of every activity, ensuring everyone feels safe, valued and capable.
“As a Veteran, I love doing things for other Veterans,” she said. “Events like this remind us that disabilities don’t define people. Veterans can do anything they put their minds to.”
To learn more about how Veterans and volunteers can participate in current and future adaptive sports programming, please reach out to PM&RS for more information at 310-478-3711, ext. 45977.