Originally published: 2024-07-16T14:30:00+00:00. Historical source article: benefits, rules, amounts and deadlines may have changed. Check the official source for current information.
Ralph H. Johnson VA proudly supports She’s the Veteran, a trailblazing organization founded by Army combat Veteran Brooke Jackson Kahn.
With a mission to empower and improve the lives of women Veterans through community building, mental health support and groundbreaking research, She’s the Veteran is making a profound impact on the fastest-growing segment of the Veteran population.
Women Veterans face unique challenges that are often overlooked, including a higher likelihood of developing PTSD, becoming homeless and struggling with hunger compared to their male counterparts.
Jackson Kahn, physician assistant and reservist, was inspired to start She’s the Veteran after discovering a lack of resources and research focused on women Veterans. “I was astounded to see the lack of research and the lack of resources. PTSD in women Veterans is not talked about enough. It hasn’t been researched enough,” Kahn said.
South Carolina home to over 45,000 women Veterans
Since its launch in 2020, She’s the Veteran has been providing a supportive community for women Veterans in South Carolina, a state home to over 45,000 women who served. The organization hosts monthly skill-based activities, such as fishing, horseback riding and shooting clays, which are designed to help participants retrain their brains and turn negative experiences into positive ones.
“It’s kind of shocking how many times these women have never even been thanked for their service. What you’re doing is brave and worth recognition. Be proud, hold your head high. You do awesome things for both your country and your community,” Kahn added.
“I didn’t know how much I needed this community until I found it,” said Michelle McMeenkin, 26-year Air force Veteran. “Being around other women Veterans who share a common core experience like serving in the armed forces has been inspiring. It’s incredible to be in a safe space where we can share stories, support each other and heal together. Literally, live, love and laugh.”
The organization holds monthly virtual “Vet Connect” meetings to reach homebound women Veterans and those living outside of South Carolina. She’s the Veteran advocates for women Veterans at local community events and celebrates Women Veterans Day annually in June.
“I feel like I’m part of something bigger.”
“Nobody gives them a break. Nobody says, ‘OK, you need a break.’ Women just march on,” Kahn said, emphasizing the importance of providing women Veterans with a space to focus on their own well-being. “It really is an internal, silent suffering of some kind because it’s just what ends up being expected. And women just do it.”
“She’s the Veteran has given me a sense of purpose and belonging. I feel like I’m part of something bigger, a movement that’s making a real difference in the lives of women Veterans. It’s empowering to meet all these amazing women, bear their stories, and know at the end of the day, we have each other’s backs,” McMeekin added.
Kahn also highlights the importance of research in addressing the unique challenges faced by women Veterans. “We need more data, more studies that focus specifically on the experiences and needs of women Veterans. Only then can we develop targeted interventions and support systems that truly make a difference,” Kahn said.
With its commitment to mental health, research and advocacy, She’s the Veteran is working to ensure that women Veterans receive the recognition, support and resources they deserve. As the organization continues to grow, it aims to expand its reach nationwide, closing the gap in mental health services and research for women who have bravely served their country.
“We want every woman Veteran to know that they are not alone. We’re here to support them, to advocate for them and to make sure that their voices are heard. Together, we can create a future where no woman Veteran feels invisible or underserved,” Kahn said.
Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Its Veterans is an independent publication and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government.
