Retreat fosters support and connection among women Veterans
More than 170 Chicago-area women Veterans came together for a special retreat organized by the Department of Veterans Affairs on Sept. 8 at Chicago’s Malcolm X College.
The event aimed to connect women Veterans with services tailored to their needs, promote a healthy lifestyle and foster a sense of community.
“We want this to be a celebration of women Veterans and what VA and other organizations can do to help them through their post-military journey,” said Sonya Ebhotemen, event organizer for Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital.
A variety of free services and resources were highlighted throughout the day, including career coaching, suicide prevention, and support for intimate partner violence and military sexual trauma, according to Ebhotemen.
Government agencies, nonprofit organizations and local businesses provided additional support, including VA, Cook County and Illinois government representatives, Daughters of the American Revolution, VWB Coaching, Women Veterans Network, and Wounded Warrior Project.
Personal wellness was highlighted, with attendees offered free massage therapy, yoga, reiki, and manicures donated by local businesses.
Marine Corps Veteran Priscilla Ramirez appreciated the retreat’s inclusive environment, which she noted is not always offered by her male Veteran counterparts.
“I feel welcome here. I felt welcomed from the time I walked into the door,” the Iraq War Veteran said.
Marianne Thompson, an Army Veteran, agreed.
“This retreat made me feel seen and heard. It’s empowering to be surrounded by fellow women Veterans who understand my journey,” Thompson said.
According to VA estimates, women constitute the fastest-growing Veteran group, with more than 2 million in the U.S. today. Women are expected to comprise 18 percent of all Veterans by 2040.
For Ebhotemen, organizing the retreat was important because she struggled with mental health and trauma after serving in the Marine Corps.
“I didn’t just survive that for me. I have to reach back and help my fellow women after they get out of the military,” she shared. “I don’t want them to experience the same hardships that I went through.”
The retreat’s impact extended beyond the day itself. Attendees acknowledged the comprehensive approach and supportive environment’s impact on their long-term health.
“I would love to come back next year,” Ramirez reflected. “This is actually helping me with my agoraphobia ... even being in a crowd full of people. I’m realizing that as long as you feel welcome, it’s not that bad.”
Hines VA Hospital will organize a similar event in Chicago’s western suburbs in early 2024, explained Ebhotemen.
“This is only the beginning,” she said.