A huge thanks to all who participated in the 2023 PVA Poem and Poster Contest For on the topic of “Travel with Dignity”. The Contest was judged by 3 professors from the Erie County Community College.

Overall Poster Winner

Lucy 0.
from Hopewell Elementary School

Willow K. from Hutchinson Elementary School
Gracey D. from Hopewell Elementary School

Overall Poem Winner
Grant E.
from Belle Vernon Middle School
The Enemy
Many soldiers have experienced
Hardships, war and turmoil.
But for paralyzed veterans,
Air travel is one battle they still fight.
Airport security,
Inaccessible paths,
III fitting seats,
Steep ramps.
Soldiers, tired of fighting.
These veterans pledged to defend our freedom and independence.
We should preserve theirs.
They deserve better.
Wheelchairs are not the enemy.


5th & 6th Grade Poem Winner
Ava B.
from Chartier’s Valley Intermediate School
Fly You to Dignity
I carried you to war,
You boarded me with pride.
You can’t proceed through the aisle now,
Your wheelchair is too wide.
I wish I knew how you must feel,
That I’m built for people to walk not wheel.
I want to help you,
Fly you to dignity and pride,
But everyone says I have a one and only job,
And that’s not to be considerate but just for me to glide.

