Why We Do It: Support for Women Veterans
Mission Statement
To connect, educate, and support unserved and underserved women veterans and men veterans, as well as other persons with disabilities, we aim to provide resources for independent living, vocational rehabilitation, and higher education through our differently-abled network. This initiative focuses on disability advocacy to ensure that all individuals can achieve workforce success.
Vision Statement
Every person with a disability, who wishes to be a productive and contributing citizen, should have the opportunity to join a differently-abled network that empowers them to change their perception of themselves from disabled to differently-abled. They should experience meaningful education and workforce success, supported by strong disability advocacy. It's essential to focus more on what we are able to do rather than what we are not able to do, while also considering the functional, psychological, socio-economic, and cultural challenges faced, including those specific to women veterans support.
Why We Serve on this Mission
Our research indicates that many of us wish to understand and support our Veterans, yet it can be difficult to comprehend why some return to civilian life ready to thrive while others face significant challenges. Unfortunately, some Veterans become hopeless and homeless, resorting to holding cardboard signs at the corners of our communities. Many struggle to access essential resources or receive disability benefits, and there is a notable reluctance to discuss their non-visible mental and physical disabilities. This often hampers their ability to engage in disability advocacy and seek necessary accommodations in both classrooms and workplaces. Consequently, some drop out of school, work, and life altogether, highlighting the urgent need for initiatives like a differently-abled network and women veterans support to better assist these individuals.