2013 National Veterans Golden Age Games campaign starts

"Warriors on the Waterfront," has been selected as the theme for the 2013 National Veterans Golden Age Games, to be hosted by VA Western New York Healthcare System in 2013.

A sponsor benefits and incentives package has been developed to kick off the campaign to bring the world's largest sports and recreational competition for senior veterans to the area May 30 through June 4, 2013.

"To bring games of this magnitude to Western New York, we will need the support of businesses and the community to highlight what Western New York has to offer to the estimated 800 veterans who will be competing and those who accompany them," stated Dr. Patrick Welch, local honorary chairman and director, Center for Veterans & Veteran Family Services at Daemen College. Sponsorship levels range in various increments from under $1,000 to corporate sponsorship levels up to $200,000. Sponsorship packages provide name and brand awareness on memorabilia, signage and recognition at events.

The games are open to all U.S. military veterans age 55 or older who receive care at a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility, and give participants the opportunity to compete in ambulatory, visually impaired and wheelchair divisions, according to their ages. Events include swimming, cycling, golf, horseshoes, bowling, shot put, discus, croquet, dominoes, air rifle, nine-ball, and table tennis.

To learn more, contact the VA Volunteer Program Office at 862-8667.