Welcome to the Team! August closed with two days that felt like both a reunion and a beginning. Our newest Peer Leaders trained together, built new friendships, deepened old ones, and learned how to hold a WoVeN group with care and confidence.
They did not start from scratch. These are women Veterans who already carry sharp skills, hard-won judgment, and stories that matter. What changed is the assignment. Those same experiences now become a bridge for the next sister finding her way.
When you spot them at a monthly Peer Leader Meeting, WoVeN at Large, or another gathering, introduce yourself. Cheer them on. They just took a brave step toward leading this community, and a real welcome goes a long way.
If you have been thinking about joining a group, now is a great time! New leaders mean more rooms where women Veterans can show up as themselves and be met with understanding.
As you read through this month's newsletter, you'll find group listings, meeting information, and an exciting research invitation! But before you continue on to that radness, we'd like to briefly list this month's meaningful observances:
The season is turning. WoVeN is growing. There is a place for you in it.
In Case You Missed It At the latest WoVeN at Large meeting, the room (virtual, but jazzy) lit up around one question:
How would you describe good, effective communication, and has yours changed since you left the military?
Our sisters didn’t hold back!
Some said the military taught the ABCs: Accuracy, Brevity, Clarity, and that brevity is now the one that can flex, depending on the audience. Many shared a preference for direct communication, which they've had to learn to balance as a Veteran joining a mostly civilian workforce. The skill isn’t abandoning the ABCs. It’s reading the room.
Others named something sharper: in uniform, they could say the same thing as their male counterparts, yet be dismissed. In WoVeN, they feel heard. One Veteran said she’s calmer since joining, not softer, just less braced. Another admitted she’s “not a talker,” leans on text and email, and is grateful to co-lead with a sister who’s helping her develop her interpersonal skills. Several said they never "fluff," but they have learned to control their tone.
The through-line: we already know how to speak up. We may now operate is spaces where individuals prefer that we pad it. The art is knowing your audience without losing yourself.
Missed the meeting? The conversation isn’t closed.
We’re posting the same question on our Facebook Community Page. Drop your take, direct, fluffy, or somewhere in between. Your voice belongs in this thread!
Ready for the next one? Wednesday, September 16, at 8:30pm ET. Open to all women Veterans, whether you’ve already completed a group or this would be your first WoVeN experience.
WoVeN Research Opportunity
Crisp Weather. Warm Conversation. Looking for a great way to connect this month, but don't have the time for an 8-week group? Consider joining in on one of our monthly meetings!
Peer Leader Meeting
Peer Leaders, check your inbox for your invitation! If you haven't attended yet, now's the perfect time to get back in the groove. Can't find your invite? Email us at contact@wovenwomenvets.org.
WoVeN at Large - Registration Required
Open to all women Veterans! Whether you've been a part of WoVeN for years or you've just been observing from a distance for a while - this meeting is for you! Take a chance, and check it out.
Still Serving? YES, MA'AM! On August 6, Janice, Teresa, Tyla, and Vernita represented the WoVeN Women of San Antonio at the Bexar County Military and Veterans Family 6th Annual Health and Wellness Fair & Back to School event. They handed out 119 tote bags filled with school supplies to students heading back to class! More than 80 vendors and about 200 families came through. Thank you, ladies, for showing WoVeN in action in San Antonio.
September’s Still Serving Spotlight: Supporting Gold Star Families
Gold Star families carry a loss most of us will never fully know. Supporting them, or joining an Adopt-a-Veteran program, is simple, steady service: show up, listen, and make sure no family is left on their own.
A care package, a ride, help with an errand, or a shared meal can mean more than a speech ever will. Gratitude lands best when it is practical.
That is Still Serving after the uniform comes off. Honor the sacrifice. Stay close to the military community. Turn respect into something a family can actually feel.
If you’re currently serving or have ideas for community involvement, we encourage you to register a Still Serving project in your area!
Pumpkin Spice < SISTERHOOD A new season is here, and we’re celebrating three WoVeN groups that just completed their time together! Help us recognize and honor the friendships and momentum they built.
Group 381: WoVeN SWANS - led by LaShawn & Rita LaShawn and Rita’s first group as Peer Leaders. The SWANS are carrying the relationship forward in the Alumni group.
Group 382 - led by Kristen & Lisa This was their first group as Peer Leaders! They guided members through all 8 weeks and closed it out with real teamwork.
WoVeN Alumni Group: Choices - led by LaShawn & Nakayla
Thank you to all the Peer Leaders and members who chose to share their time with our fellow Veterans. These groups are what WoVeN is all about! Here’s to a fresh September of continued connection.
Ready to sign up for your WoVeN experience?
Review the upcoming groups listed below and select one that fits your schedule!
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