The Vet Space is a community-building organization that uses nature, partnerships, resource navigation, and advocacy to strengthen connectedness, belonging, and wellbeing among women veterans.

1. Nature-Based Connection

Nature creates space to slow down, breathe, and reconnect—not only with the outdoors, but with one another. Throughout the year, we bring women veterans together through signature experiences, including:

• Soul Sistas on the Water (Spring)

• Annual Spring Hike & Retreat

• Konnecting & Kayaking during National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month (September)

• Annual Fall Retreat

These signature gatherings are intentionally designed to strengthen relationships, foster belonging, and support overall wellbeing.

2. Community & Peer Connection

Connection doesn't only happen at our events—it happens throughout the community.

We partner with veteran-serving organizations, outdoor groups, and community partners to expand opportunities for women veterans to connect year-round.

Examples include:

• Participating in partner events with organizations such as Georgia Appalachian Trail Club (GATC), Georgia State Parks, and other community partners

• Educational workshops and community wellness events

• Coffee meetups, social gatherings, and networking opportunities

• Collaborative events with veteran, military, and women's organizations

By working together, we create more opportunities for women veterans to build lasting relationships and discover new communities where they belong.

3. Suicide Prevention Through Connectedness

The Vet Space proudly supports the Governor's Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans, and Their Families by strengthening protective factors before crisis occurs.

We believe meaningful connection can save lives.

Our work includes:

• VA S.A.V.E. Suicide Prevention Training for women veterans, families, volunteers, and community partners

• Peer connection gatherings that reduce social isolation

• Resource navigation and warm referrals to VA and community services

• Sharing suicide prevention resources throughout the year, with a special focus during National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

• Partnering with the VA, Vet Centers, and community organizations to increase awareness and access to support

We believe:

• Connection is the intervention.

• Nature is the setting.

• Belonging is the outcome.

4. Advocacy & Resource Navigation

Removing barriers is part of creating community.

We empower women veterans by connecting them to trusted information, benefits, and advocacy efforts that improve access to care and wellness.

Our work includes:

• VA disability claims clinics and benefits assistance in partnership with accredited Veteran Service Officers

• Workshops on navigating the VA healthcare system and accessing earned benefits

• Educational sessions on women veterans' health and available resources

• Referrals to trusted community organizations and support services

• Legislative advocacy, including support for SB 190 – the Georgia Honor & Wellness Act, which would expand access to Georgia State Parks for veterans and Gold Star families

Because access to care, community, and the outdoors should never be barriers to wellbeing.

Why This Matters

When women veterans feel connected, they are more likely to:

• Build supportive relationships

• Increase their sense of belonging

• Access trusted resources and benefits

• Participate in their communities

• Strengthen their resilience and overall wellbeing

• Reach out for help before challenges become crises

Every conversation, every partnership, every shared experience, and every connection helps build a stronger network of support.

Because no woman veteran should have to navigate life alone.