May 2025 Newsletter

Moderators
May 10
2 min read

Lady Veterans Connect May 2025 Newsletter: Celebrating Progress, Partnership, and Purpose

This month’s edition of the Lady Veterans Connect (LVC) newsletter is packed with inspiring updates, impactful events, and stories of transformation.

Here are some of the highlights:

✨ Veteran Success Stories

Two of LVC’s residents, Shirley and Teresa, are making incredible strides. Shirley, an Air Force veteran who was homeless for seven years, is moving into VA-supported housing in Winchester and will throw the first pitch at the Lexington Legends Military Appreciation Game on May 24. Teresa has secured a job and is receiving mental health support as she reconnects with her family in Winchester.

🌲 Spotlight on Camp Brown Bear

Retired Navy SEAL Steve Brown, an LVC advisory board member, has transformed a neglected church camp into Camp Brown Bear, a healing retreat for veterans with PTSD, TBI, and MST. Since 2015, the camp has hosted 80 retreats for over 1,000 veterans, offering holistic therapies, outdoor activities, and vital camaraderie.

🎖 Women Veterans Recognition Day – June 14

Mark your calendars for June 14 at the Kentucky Historical Society in Frankfort. The annual observance will feature powerful speakers, including:

Lindsey Gargotto, veteran and poet
Monica Dean, 2023 KY Woman Veteran of the Year
Brenda Paynewhite, Desert Storm & Enduring Freedom veteran
Tamika Saxx, military mental health strategist

Guests can also explore the special exhibit Our Stories Our Service: Kentucky Women Veterans before it closes.

🎗 Vietnam Memorial Wall & Central KY Day of Valor

On June 28, the second annual Central Kentucky Day of Valor at George Rogers Clark HS will feature the Kentucky Vietnam Memorial Wall, honoring 1,108 Kentuckians who died in the war.

⭐️ Lockheed Martin Visit

On April 24, Lockheed Martin volunteers gave their time to help with painting and repairs at Anna’s House. Their dedication supports LVC’s mission in tangible ways.

📅 Upcoming Events

May 24 – Lexington Legends Military Appreciation Game
June 14 – Women Veterans Day Celebration
June 28 – Central KY Day of Valor
July 26 – Veterans Expo in Elizabethtown (legal help, wellness sessions, fashion show)
Sept 13 – American Legion Riders Poker Run
Nov 8 – MRE Cooking Competition, Lexington

💙 Get Involved

Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or Kroger Community Rewards, every bit helps support women veterans in need. Visit ladyveteransconnect.org/support-us to learn how you can help.