December 2025 Newsletter

A Year That Changed Lives: Stories, Gratitude, and What’s Next for Lady Veterans Connect

As 2025 comes to a close, one thing is unmistakably clear: Lady Veterans Connect is not just providing services—it is restoring dignity, safety, and hope for women veterans when they need it most.

This year’s stories are powerful, honest, and deeply human. They remind us why this work matters—and why the generosity of our sponsors, donors, and community partners is so critical.

When Support Becomes a Lifeline

One of the most moving moments this year comes from a first-person account by Nancy “Fi,” a U.S. Air Force veteran who found herself homeless at 57 after compounded trauma and loss. With nowhere else to go, she entered the VA system carrying two bags and an overwhelming sense of uncertainty.

What changed everything was finding Lady Veterans Connect.

At Anna’s House, she found something rare: a place with no judgment—only empathy, compassion, and healing. Today, she is not only rebuilding her life, but speaking publicly as an advocate for women veterans. Her story is a reminder that homelessness can happen to anyone—and that the right support at the right time can change the trajectory of a life.

Honoring Service, Even at the End

This year also brought moments of solemn honor, including the laying to rest of Shirley Hampton at Camp Nelson National Cemetery. LVC volunteers and partners stood together in the cold to ensure she was remembered with dignity and respect.

We extend heartfelt thanks to the individuals and organizations who helped provide Shirley with a military service—your compassion ensured that no veteran was forgotten.

Community, Celebration, and Connection

Not every moment was heavy—and that matters, too.

From a Thanksgiving potluck shared by residents and volunteers at Anna’s House, to laughter and music filling the room, these gatherings reflect what healing can look like in community. They are reminders that belonging is part of recovery.

That same spirit carried into one of the year’s most creative fundraisers: the MRE Chef Showdown. Area chefs transformed military rations into gourmet dishes, proving that even the most utilitarian experiences can be reimagined with care and creativity. The event brought people together, raised critical funds, and reminded us that supporting women veterans can be meaningful—and joyful.

Growth, Leadership, and the Power of Education

2025 also celebrated leadership and professional growth within LVC itself. Board member and webmaster Tori Peychich earned international recognition through Chi Sigma Iota, an honor society for counseling professionals—underscoring the depth of expertise and commitment guiding the organization forward.

Looking Ahead to 2026—with Gratitude

Because of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and community partners, Lady Veterans Connect is preparing for significant growth in 2026. Plans are underway to build healing cottages for women veterans and their children, expand suicide prevention efforts, and reach even more women who need a safe place to heal.

Your contributions do more than fund programs.They open doors.They restore hope.They save lives.

As this year closes, we offer our deepest thanks to every sponsor, donor, volunteer, and partner who stood with us in 2025. You are the reason these stories have hope-filled endings—and the reason even more women veterans will find safety, healing, and community in the year ahead.

-- With Gratitude,

Lady Veterans Connect