The Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) has long been a steadfast advocate for veterans, particularly those with disabilities. Each year, PVA hosts the Annual Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat, which is a transformative event aimed at uplifting and empowering female veterans. This retreat is not just an 
event; it is a vital space for connection, education, and healing. This year’s 6th annual retreat was held in Long Beach, California from October 5-8th, and our own New England PVA Chapter member and Board of Director Bernice DeBlois happily attended along with over 30 other women veterans from across the nation.
Purpose and Goals
The primary objective of the Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat is to provide a supportive environment where women veterans can gather, share experiences, and learn from one another. Many female veterans face unique challenges, including navigating a male-dominated military culture and dealing with the physical and emotional scars of service. The retreat addresses these issues head-on, focusing on empowerment, resilience, and community building.
Activities and Workshops
The retreat in Long Beach this year featured a variety of workshops and activities tailored to the needs and interests of women veterans. Topics included:
- Mental Health and Wellness: Sessions on stress management, mindfulness, and coping strategies helped attendees prioritize their mental health.
- Career Development: Workshops focused on resume building, job search strategies, and interview preparation, empowering women to advance in their professional lives.
- Physical Fitness: Adaptive sports and fitness activities that promote physical well-being and encourage a healthy lifestyle.
- Networking Opportunities: Attendees had the chance to connect with other veterans, community organizations, and potential employers, fostering a sense of camaraderie and support.
Inspirational Speakers
A highlight of the retreat was the lineup of inspiring speakers, including successful female veterans and leaders in various fields. These speakers shared their personal stories of overcoming adversity and achieving success, providing motivation and encouragement to attendees.
Community and Connection
Perhaps one of the most significant aspects of the retreat is the sense of community it fosters. Many women veterans report feeling isolated after their service, and this year’s retreat offered a much-needed opportunity for attendees to connect with peers who understand their experiences. The bonds formed during the retreat lead to lasting friendships and support networks.
Impact and Testimonials
The impact of the 6th Annual Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat was profound. Attendees left feeling revitalized, equipped with new skills, and more connected to their fellow veterans. New England
Chapter member and Board of Director Bernice DeBlois recently shared with our Board how a highlight of the retreat is its role in helping women veterans regain confidence, pursue new opportunities, and find a supportive community. I asked Bernice to share more about her experience at this year’s retreat, and she shared the following:
“Only 2% of all women in the United States have served in the military, so myself and the other 34 women at this retreat are an elite group! We all have a very strong bond with one another. Throughout the retreat there was a constant focus on the good and not any negativity, which I really appreciated. This year they offered chair meditative yoga each morning and I even got a makeover from a professional makeup artist! I never had one of those before. The food was magnificent, and the wait staff went out of their way to make us feel special and cared for. On the last night of the retreat, they had a big dinner with a 1940’s theme, where many women did their hair and wore clothes with a 40’s style. It was wonderful! The whole week made me deeply grateful to be a member of PVA and a Board of Director here in New England.
Conclusion
The PVA Women Veterans Empowerment Retreat is more than just a gathering; it is a powerful movement towards empowerment, healing, and connection for female veterans. As these women continue to navigate their post-service lives, the skills, friendships, and support gained at the retreat serve as invaluable resources, helping them thrive in every aspect of their lives. PVA’s commitment to uplifting women veterans is a testament to the organization’s dedication to ensuring that all veterans receive the respect, recognition, and support they deserve. We are so proud of our own Chapter member Bernice who represented our New England Chapter so well at the retreat and who had an incredible experience there herself. Next year’s 7th Annual Retreat is expected to be held in Tampa, Florida.
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