Women Veterans’ activity promotes connections with others, strength in self
“Transitioning out of the military can be difficult,” said Misti Bybee, social worker and women Veterans program manager for the Sheridan VA Health Care System. “Many people find family and support there. When they leave, they lose that.”
Connection through activities
In December 2023, Bybee initiated a plan to promote meaningful connection among women Veterans, especially those living in rural locations. She organized a snow globe-making event that allowed 12 participants to come together, work on a creative project and bond.
Bybee highlighted the importance of creating a relaxed environment, where women Veterans can share stories and develop friendships, with no pressure and no expectations.
“There were lots of giggles,” she said. “We were on this shared journey of vulnerability in a non-threatening way.”
The women enjoyed the experience so much, many asked when they could do it again.
Bi-monthly events foster safe connection
Bybee plans to offer different activities every other month, and the next one, “Becoming Your Own Rock,” is set for Friday, February 23, 2024. A virtual version begins at 9 a.m., and the in-person event runs from 1 to 2 p.m.
During the sessions, women will paint a meaningful word or design on a rock. At the same time, the Veterans can engage and discuss why their chosen word is meaningful or connect over shared military experiences.
These events allow women Veterans to meet and bond in a safe, no-pressure environment. And although participants may create great art, that is not the primary goal.
“It’s not about the artistic outcome,” said Bybee. “It’s about community. These activities create a special space for laughter, joy and connection with sisters in arms. It also makes VA a cool place to come for care beyond annual visits, providing another layer of support and showing women Veterans they are valued and wanted. We want to be part of their lives in supportive ways.”
Expanding the impact
U.S. Navy Veteran Dr. Kaitlyn Card is a psychologist and intimate partner violence assistance program coordinator for the Sheridan VA Health Care System. She is honored to serve her fellow Vets at these events and emphasized that women Veterans deserve all the services and support they have earned.
“We were able to get to know some of the women and it gave us a nice, informal way to communicate other services we offer,” said Card. “The women were glad VA was doing something like this.”
Meaning behind the rock project
“Becoming Your Own Rock symbolizes that you are what you need at the core, like a cornerstone,” said Bybee. “The women have to realize, ‘I am whole in myself.’”
The project presents an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth to help women Veterans move toward self-compassion by recognizing their strength and worth. The rock serves as a visual reminder of these concepts through creative expression.
“It’s also about how we can foster positive, healthy relationships with intimate partners, others and ourselves,” said Card. “We remind people they must be their own center before seeking relationships elsewhere. You need to love yourself before you can love others. We bring attention to that through this activity.”
A sense of belonging
Women Veterans are the fastest-growing demographic to enroll in the VA health care system. Bybee said these events show them they are valued and welcome in VA.
“They communicate there’s a place for you here,” she said. “Let’s be together as a community, connecting women Veterans with the tools to meet their needs.”
To register for the virtual version of Becoming Your Own Rock, call Brianna Cunningham at 307-675-3712 by February 10, 2024, to request a craft kit and link to the meeting.
For the in-person event, meet at Sheridan VA Medical Center (1898 Fort Road, Bldg. 4, Room 114) on February 23 at 1 p.m.
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April Love is a writer-editor on the VISN 19 Creative Task Force. She began working for VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System in 2016 and lives in Aurora, Colorado.