BVL (Bowlers to Veterans Link), a 501c3 charity that funds recreation therapy programs to address the emotional and physical needs of veterans and active-duty military, announced they have awarded a $250,000 grant to the National Association of State Veterans Homes (NASVH) which will be designated for virtual reality content and equipment for veterans. MyndVR, the award-winning provider of VR-based, digital therapeutic experiences designed for the aging population, will fulfill the donation with the immediate deployment of MyndVR into 50 state veteran homes across the United States.

BVL is bowling’s oldest charity, founded in 1942 when bowlers across America raised funds to purchase planes to bring wounded servicemen and women home from World War II. Since the organization’s inception, the bowling community has raised more than $55 million to support those who have served. Bowling centers and associations will continue to raise funds for veterans throughout November which is BVL Month in America.

“It is an absolute honor to work with BVL to bring our therapeutic brand of virtual reality to such an important population,” said MyndVR CEO and founder, Chris Brickler. “These veterans have earned this technology that provides emotional comfort, cognitive engagement, and even physical exercise in long-term care. The therapeutic power of VR is truly limitless.”

“Eighty years ago, BVL was flying servicemen and women back home from duty. Today, we are enabling veterans to virtually land on the USS Eisenhower in the Atlantic Ocean, go skydiving in a wingsuit, travel the world, and engage in a whole new range of experiences as part of their recreation therapy activities,” said John LaSpina, chairman of BVL. “We are excited to join forces with MyndVR to bring this incredible state-of-the-art technology to brighten the lives of as many veterans as possible.”

BVL presented the $250,000 grant to NASVH education committee chairman Jonathan Spier on Thursday, Nov. 3, at the Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook.